Capable Quote by Reinhold Niebuhr
“Original sin is that thing about man which makes him capable of conceiving of his own perfection and incapable of achieving it.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Moral Man and Immoral Society, Reinhold Niebuhr, 1932
Human nature aspires to perfection but is inherently limited, creating a perpetual gap between desire and ability.
In simple terms: We aim for perfection but can’t achieve it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits while striving for growth.
Themes
human nature
aspiration
limitations
philosophy
ethics
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- personal goal setting
- leadership
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
theology
existentialism
self‑knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this tension shape moral choices?
- Can acceptance of limitation be empowering?
A Different Perspective
May cause frustration or fatalism.
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
