New testament Quote by Wally Lamb
““Does not the New Testament exhort us to extend a hand to one who has fallen? Professor Sumner would have us place a foot on the fallen one as he lies prone and pitiable, the better to remain his superior.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Hour of the Star, 1996
A critique of moral superiority that treats the vulnerable as objects to dominate rather than to help.
In simple terms: Superiority over the fallen is misguided.
Key Takeaway
Treat the fallen with compassion, not dominance.
Themes
compassion
humility
ethics
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- charity work
- conflict resolution
- leadership
- social services
Key Concepts
power dynamics
empathy
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we help without asserting superiority?
- What does true compassion look like?
A Different Perspective
It ignores the dignity and agency of those in need.
