Better place Quote by Terry Pratchett
““A witch didn't do things because they seemed a good idea at the time! That was practically cackling. You had to deal every day with people who were foolish and lazy and untruthful and downright unpleasant, and you could certainly end up thinking that the world would be considerably improved if you gave them a slap. But you didn't because, as Miss Tick had once explained: a) it would make the world a better place for only a very short time; b) it would then make the world a slightly worse place; and c) you're not supposed to be as stupid as they are.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Discworld series, The Last Continent, 2000
A witch refrains from violent revenge because its benefits are fleeting and it worsens the world overall, and wisdom outweighs impulsive anger.
In simple terms: Violence rarely fixes problems; patience and wisdom are better.
Key Takeaway
Choose restraint over rash retaliation.
Themes
ethics
patience
wisdom
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily conflicts
- workplace disputes
- parenting challenges
- social injustice
- political activism
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you felt tempted to punish harshly?
- What alternatives could you pursue?
A Different Perspective
Violence may sometimes be necessary for self‑defense, complicating the moral calculus.
