Conscience Quote by Martha Stout
““To admit that some people literally have no conscience is not technically the same as saying that some human beings are evil, but it is disturbingly close. And good people want very much not to believe in the personification of evil.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Psychopathology of Everyday Life, Martha Stout, 2005
People can lack conscience without being wholly evil; good people resist seeing evil as a personified force.
In simple terms: Lack of conscience isn’t total evil; avoid personifying evil.
Key Takeaway
Recognize nuanced moral failings without labeling whole people evil.
Themes
morality
psychology
ethics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- judgment
- interpersonal conflict
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
conscience
evil
personification
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish lack of conscience from evil?
- Why resist personifying evil?
A Different Perspective
Human behavior often blurs simple good‑evil categories.
