Despair Quote by Thomas Aquinas
““While injustice is the worst of sins, despair is the most dangerous; because when you are in despair you care neither about yourself nor about others.””
About This Quote
Source Treat: Summa Theologica, 1265
Despair is more perilous than injustice because it erodes concern for self and others, leading to moral decay.
In simple terms: Despair destroys empathy and moral action.
Guard against despair to preserve compassion.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- social injustice
- mental health
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does despair affect your moral choices?
- What can restore empathy in despair?
Despair can also stem from systemic oppression, not just personal choice.