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About this quote

What does it mean?
Human nature is fundamentally unkind despite claims of civilization or morality.
In plain terms
People are generally not kind to each other.
What can you take from it?
Beware idealizing humanity; cruelty is common.

Where it applies

  • observing conflict
  • political discourse
  • personal betrayal

Putting it to work

  • managing expectations of others
  • practicing empathy

Questions to consider

  • Have you seen kindness outweigh cruelty?
  • What drives unkind behavior?

Another view

It ignores instances of genuine altruism and kindness.

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