Skip to content

Disaster Quote by William Dean Howells

“How strange it (the earthquake) must all have seemed to them, here where they lived so safely always! They thought such a dreadful thing could happen to others, but not to them. That is the way!” quote by William Dean Howells
Download Open image
““How strange it (the earthquake) must all have seemed to them, here where they lived so safely always! They thought such a dreadful thing could happen to others, but not to them. That is the way!””

William Dean Howells

About This Quote

People often feel invulnerable until a disaster hits close to home, revealing their false sense of safety.

In simple terms: We think danger happens to others, not us.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal vulnerability and prepare.

Themes

risk perception human psychology disaster awareness

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • urban living
  • emergency planning
  • insurance decisions
  • community drills

Key Concepts

cognitive bias optimism bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess your own safety?
  • What steps can you take to mitigate unexpected threats?
A Different Perspective

People may underestimate personal risk despite warnings.

2.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by William Dean Howells

Explore all 64 William Dean Howells quotes

More Disaster quotes

Browse all 2,239 Disaster quotes