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Behave Quote by Morton Irving Seiden

“What astonishes many of us is not so much that human nature is fundamentally corrupt; we are astonished rather that it does not behave more wickedly than it obviously does.” quote by Morton Irving Seiden
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“What astonishes many of us is not so much that human nature is fundamentally corrupt; we are astonished rather that it does not behave more wickedly than it obviously does.”

Morton Irving Seiden

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About This Quote

Human nature is often presumed corrupt, yet its actual behavior is less wicked than expected.

In simple terms: Nature is less wicked than presumed.

Key Takeaway

Expectations of human corruption exceed reality.

Themes

human nature morality perception behavior ethics

Mood

thoughtful skeptical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • ethical debates
  • philosophical discussions
  • cultural analysis
  • psychological studies

Key Concepts

corruption wickedness expectation

Practical Applications

  • moral education
  • social policy design

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we assume humans are more corrupt than they are?
  • How does this perception affect societal trust?

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