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About this quote

What does it mean?
A community might claim to be good people while still acting like scoundrels.
In plain terms
People say they are not scoundrels but they are just ordinary people.
What can you take from it?
Groups often deny bad behavior while acting normally.

Where it applies

  • social criticism
  • group behavior
  • ethical judgment

Putting it to work

  • question group norms
  • assess collective behavior

Questions to consider

  • What makes a community good?
  • Is denial common?

Another view

Ordinary people can act with genuine integrity.

More from Franz Kafka

  1. The thornbush is old obstacle in the road. It must catch fire if you want to go further.

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  2. Anyone who believes cannot experience miracles. By day one does not see any stars. Anyone who does miracles says: I cannot let go of the earth.

    Permalink to quote #68
  3. The history of mankind is the instant between two strides taken by a traveler.

    Permalink to quote #65

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