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...the inherent contradiction of human life has now reached an extreme degree of tension: on the one side there is the consciousness of the beneficence of the law of love, and on the other the existing order of life... an empty, anxious, restless, and troubled mode of life, conflicting as it does with the law of love and built on the use of violence. This contradiction must be faced, and the solution... has dwelt in the hearts of men from remote antiquity: the truth that the law of love is in accord with the nature of man.

Leo Tolstoy#97

PhilosophyEthicsViolenceWarHuman nature

About this quote

What does it mean?
Human life is torn between the law of love and a violent, restless existence, creating extreme tension.
In plain terms
We are caught between love and violence, causing deep conflict.
What can you take from it?
Recognize and resolve the clash between love and violent habits.

Where it applies

  • personal crisis
  • social upheaval
  • ethical debate

Putting it to work

  • reflect on personal values
  • promote non‑violent solutions

Questions to consider

  • How does love confront violence in daily life?
  • What steps can reduce this tension?

Another view

The quote assumes love can easily align with human nature, which may not hold true for all.

More from Leo Tolstoy

  1. When an individual passes from one period of life to another a time comes when he cannot go on in senseless activity and excitement as before, ...he has out-gr…

    Permalink to quote #96
  2. ...men can only recognize this truth to its full extent when they have completely freed themselves from all religious and scientific superstitions and from all…

    Permalink to quote #98
  3. What is now happening to the people of the East as of the West is like what happens to every individual when he passes from childhood to adolescence and from y…

    Permalink to quote #95

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