Adversaries Quote by Terry Pratchett
“Look at Satan. Created as an angel, grows up to be the Great Adversary. Hey, if you’re going to go on about genetics, you might as well say the kid will grow up to be an angel. After all, his father was really big in Heaven in the old days. Saying he’ll grow up to be a demon just because his dad became one is like saying a mouse with its tail cut off will give birth to tailless mice. No. Upbringing is everything. Take it from me.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Discworld series, 1990s
Nature versus nurture: upbringing shapes character more than lineage.
In simple terms: Upbringing matters more than genetics.
Key Takeaway
Focus on environment, not ancestry.
Themes
parenting
character
nature vs nurture
mythology
Mood
reflective
critical
philosophical
Type
advice
observational
When to use this quote
- family dynamics
- education
- personal development
- religious teaching
Key Concepts
Determinism
free will
mythic archetypes
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your upbringing differ from your family’s legacy?
- Can you change a perceived destiny?
A Different Perspective
Genetics still influence traits; environment isn’t sole factor.
