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About this quote

What does it mean?
Ingersoll distinguishes between cosmic indifference and moral example, suggesting that nature operates through cause and effect rather than divine judgment.
In plain terms
Nature does not judge good or bad, it just has consequences.
What can you take from it?
Understand consequences instead of expecting rewards or punishments.

Where it applies

  • ethical decision making
  • personal accountability
  • philosophical discussion

Putting it to work

  • take responsibility for actions
  • evaluate outcomes
  • reject superstition

Questions to consider

  • Do you live by consequences or by rules?
  • Is there justice outside of cause and effect?

Another view

Humans often seek meaning or justice beyond natural consequences.

More from Robert G. Ingersoll

  1. I suppose it can be truthfully said that Hope is the only universal liar who never loses his reputation for veracity.

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  2. For the most part we inherit our opinions. We are the heirs of habits and mental customs. Our beliefs, like the fashion of our garments, depend on where we wer…

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  3. Love is the only bow on Life's dark cloud. It is the morning and the evening star. It shines upon the babe, and sheds its radiance on the quiet tomb. It is the…

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