Children Quote by Terry Pratchett
““I was walking along the bank of a stream when I saw a mother otter with her cubs, a very endearing sight, I'm sure you'll agree. And even as I watched, the mother otter dived into the water and came up with a plump salmon, which she subdued and dragged onto a half submerged log. As she ate it, while of course it was still alive, the body split and I remember to this day the sweet pinkness of its roes as they spilled out, much to the delight of the baby otters, who scrambled over themselves to feed on the delicacy. One of nature's wonders, gentlemen. Mother and children dining upon mother and children. And that is when I first learned about evil. It is built into the very nature of the universe. Every world spins in pain. If there is any kind of supreme being, I told myself, it is up to all of us to become his moral superior.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Light Fantastic, Terry Pratchett, 1986
Observing nature's brutal cycle reveals that suffering and predation are inherent, prompting a moral imperative to transcend inherent evil.
In simple terms: Nature shows cruelty, urging us to be morally superior.
Key Takeaway
Strive to act with compassion despite natural harshness.
Themes
ethics
nature
morality
compassion
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- wildlife observation
- environmental education
- personal reflection
- philosophical discussion
Key Concepts
predation
moral philosophy
human agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we cultivate moral superiority in a world of natural predation?
- What responsibilities arise from recognizing inherent suffering?
A Different Perspective
Human morality may be limited by biological instincts.
