I hated tobacco. I could have almost lent my support to…
“I hated tobacco. I could have almost lent my support to any institution that had for its object the putting of tobacco smokers to death...I now feel that smoking in moderation is a comfortable and laudable practice, and is productive of good. There is no more harm in a pipe than in a cup of tea. You may poison yourself by drinking too much green tea, and kill yourself by eating too many beefsteaks. For my part, I consider that tobacco, in moderation, is a sweetener and equalizer of the temper.”
About This Quote
The author argues that moderate tobacco use is harmless compared to other risks, suggesting a relativistic view of harm.
In simple terms: Moderate smoking seen as relatively safe.
Key Takeaway
Consider risk in context.
Themes
risk
moderation
comparisons
health
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- diet choices
- smoking habits
- health policy
Key Concepts
relativism
risk assessment
public health
Questions to Reflect On
- Is any habit truly harmless?
- How do we weigh different health risks?