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Academic Quote by Steven Pinker

“As every student in Philosophy 101 learns, nothing can force me to believe that anyone except me is conscious. This power to deny that other people have feelings is not just an academic exercise but an all-too-common vice, as we see in the long history of human cruelty.” quote by Steven Pinker
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“As every student in Philosophy 101 learns, nothing can force me to believe that anyone except me is conscious. This power to deny that other people have feelings is not just an academic exercise but an all-too-common vice, as we see in the long history of human cruelty.”

Steven Pinker

About This Quote

Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature, Steven Pinker, 2011

We can deny others' consciousness, which fuels cruelty; recognizing shared feeling reduces harm.

In simple terms: Denying others' feelings enables cruelty.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge others' consciousness.

Themes

ethics philosophy empathy

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • interpersonal conflict
  • social policy
  • justice reform

Key Concepts

theory of mind moral psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing others' consciousness change behavior?
  • What practices foster empathy?
A Different Perspective

Human beings often ignore others' inner lives, perpetuating harm.

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