Barbarity Quote by Peter Wessel Zapffe
“When a human being takes his life in depression, this is a natural death of spiritual causes. The modern barbarity of 'saving' the suicidal is based on a hair-raising misapprehension of the nature of existence.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Last Messiah by Peter Wessel Zapffe, 1933
Depression can be seen as a spiritual death, and attempts to “save” suicides may misunderstand existence's nature.
In simple terms: Depression is a spiritual death; saving may misinterpret existence.
Key Takeaway
Recognize deeper existential causes of despair.
Themes
existentialism
mental health
philosophy
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- counseling
- philosophical counseling
- spiritual support
Key Concepts
nihilism
meaning
death
health care
suicide prevention
existential crisis
Questions to Reflect On
- What deeper meanings might underlie a person's depression?
- How can we respect existential perspectives while offering help?
A Different Perspective
Saving may overlook personal meaning; not all despair is purely spiritual.
