Change Quote by Steven Pinker
““As always, the challenge is to find an exogenous change that precedes the change in sensibilities and behavior so we can avoid the circularity of saying that people stopped doing cruel things because they got less cruel.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature, Steven Pinker, 2011
The quote argues that to truly reduce cruelty we must first change external conditions that shape attitudes, rather than assuming attitudes change first.
In simple terms: Change outside influences before attitudes to stop cruelty.
Key Takeaway
Target systemic factors early.
Themes
ethics
behavioral change
social policy
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
policy‑oriented
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- education programs
- media influence
- legal frameworks
Key Concepts
circularity
exogenous variables
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What external factors most shape moral behavior?
- How can we measure the impact of policy on cruelty?
A Different Perspective
If external changes are insufficient, deep‑seated beliefs may persist.
