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About this quote

What does it mean?
Many people smoke because they see it as a dignified way to end their lives.
In plain terms
Smoking is chosen because it feels like a respectable suicide.
What can you take from it?
People make harmful choices for perceived control.

Where it applies

  • public health
  • personal decisions
  • psychology

Putting it to work

  • address underlying desires
  • promote dignity without harm
  • understand addiction

Questions to consider

  • Why do people choose self harm?
  • How can dignity be found without destruction?

Another view

Not all smokers view it as suicide; many underestimate risk.

More from Kurt Vonnegut

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