No nation was ever so virtuous as each believes itself, and none was ever so wicked as each believes the other.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Russell observes that each nation sees itself as more virtuous than others and sees others as more wicked.
- In plain terms
- Nations view themselves as good and others as bad.
- What can you take from it?
- Self‑favoritism and other‑denigration are common in national narratives.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do groups tend to view themselves positively?
- How does this bias affect diplomacy?
Another view
The statement may overgeneralize individual attitudes.
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