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About this quote

What does it mean?
Understanding someone's choices can remove fear and hate even if the choice seems wrong. Justice is not always the cause of perceived unfairness.
In plain terms
Understanding why someone did something can stop you from hating them even if you still think it is wrong.
What can you take from it?
Understanding motives reduces hatred even without agreeing.

Where it applies

  • mediation
  • personal disputes
  • legal contexts

Putting it to work

  • seek motives before judging
  • separate intent from impact

Questions to consider

  • What would change your mind about someone?
  • Can you understand without agreeing?

Another view

Understanding does not always justify bad actions.

More from Orson Scott Card

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  3. Hypocrites, I said to them. You dare to rob mankind of all it's pain, yet treasure your own agonies. Who watches you?

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