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Change Quote by Nelson Mandela

“I never lost hope that this great transformation would occur (...) I always knew that deep down in every human heart, there was mercy and generosity. No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they…” quote by Nelson Mandela
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““I never lost hope that this great transformation would occur (...) I always knew that deep down in every human heart, there was mercy and generosity. No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite. page 749””

Nelson Mandela

About This Quote

Source Book: Long Walk to Freedom, 1994, p. 749

He believes inherent mercy and generosity exist in all humans, and love is more natural than hate, which is learned.

In simple terms: People are born kind; hate is taught.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate empathy and teach love.

Themes

human nature compassion social change

Mood

hopeful inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • community building
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

innate goodness learned hatred

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can societies unlearn hate?
  • What role does education play in fostering love?
A Different Perspective

Changing deep-seated hatred is difficult.

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