Child Quote by Samuel Butler
““a good deal of unkindness and selfishness on the part of parents towards children is not generally followed by ill consequences to the parents themselves. They may cast a gloom over their children’s lives for many years without having to suffer anything that will hurt them. I should say, then, that it shows no great moral obliquity on the part of parents if within certain limits they make their children’s lives a burden to them.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Erewhon by Samuel Butler, 1872
Parents often act selfishly without facing consequences, yet their behavior can cast a long shadow over their children’s lives.
In simple terms: Selfish parents may harm children without being harmed themselves.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the impact of parental actions on children.
Themes
family
morality
consequences
generational effects
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parenting decisions
- child development
- family counseling
- intergenerational trauma
Key Concepts
ethics
psychology
social responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you address harmful parental behavior?
- What limits should exist on parental authority?
A Different Perspective
Children may suffer even if parents feel unpunished.
