Of all the animals, man is the only one that is cruel. He is the only one that inflicts pain for the pleasure of doing it.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Humans are unique in their capacity to cause suffering for enjoyment.
- In plain terms
- Only humans hurt others just because they find it fun.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize and avoid inflicting pain without cause.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do humans hurt for pleasure?
- How can you reduce harm?
Another view
Other animals can be cruel for survival.
More from Mark Twain
There is nothing lower than the human race except the French.
Permalink to quote #190 They did not know it was impossible, so they did it!
Permalink to quote #192 There are no dialogues, only intersecting monologues.
Permalink to quote #189
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