At the approach of danger there are always two voices that speak with equal force in the heart of man: one very reasonably tells the man to consider the nature of the danger and the means of avoiding it; the other even more reasonable says that it is too painful and harassing to think of the danger, since it is not a man's power to provide for everything and escape from the general march of events; and that it is therefore better to turn aside from the painful subject till it has come, and to think of what is pleasant. In solitude a man generally yields to the first voice; in society to the second.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Men hear two voices in danger: one urging caution and the other urging distraction; society favors the latter.
- In plain terms
- In danger, people either think about avoiding it or try to ignore it until it arrives.
- What can you take from it?
- Social settings often discourage rational fear responses.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you react to danger?
- Does social pressure hide your fears?
Another view
It assumes all people react the same way to danger.
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