Bumper sticker Quote by Steven Pinker
““A great principle of moral advancement, on a par with “Love thy neighbor” and “All men are created equal,” is the one on the bumper sticker: “Shit happens.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature, 2011
Advocates a pragmatic moral principle that accepts life’s randomness (“Shit happens”) alongside classic ethical maxims.
In simple terms: Accept randomness as part of moral life.
Balance idealism with realistic acceptance.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- daily decision making
- conflict resolution
- stress coping
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging randomness affect judgment?
- When is “Shit happens” insufficient?
May seem dismissive of serious moral issues.