Bother Quote by Van Wyck Brooks
“If men were basically evil, who would bother to improve the world instead of giving it up as a bad job at the outset?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The American Novel, 1938
If humans were inherently evil, why would they strive to improve the world rather than abandon it?
In simple terms: People improve the world because they aren't wholly evil.
Key Takeaway
Recognize innate goodness that drives progress.
Themes
optimism
human nature
progress
Mood
reflective
inspired
Type
philosophical
social.
When to use this quote
- community service
- policy reform
- education initiatives
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
social theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates your desire to better society?
- How do we balance idealism with realism?
A Different Perspective
Not all actions stem from pure altruism; self‑interest plays a role.
![“The [film] business is run by men, and they're basically interested in their own species, and they're not so interested in women belonging to the human race.” quote by Bette Midler](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a01/bette-midler-1976_belonging_the-film-business-is-run-by-men-and-they_2233000.jpg)
![“Brad [Dourif] would tell himself that he was not intentionally trying to mimic Jack Nicholson in any way. I think that actually bothers him a little bit. I just think maybe they have similar voices.” quote by David Kirschner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cfe/david-kirschner-22403_bits_brad-dourif-would-tell-himself-that-he-w_478.jpg)
