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About this quote

What does it mean?
Survival is the primary objective, overshadowing moral concern for others. It reflects a harsh, self-centered worldview.
In plain terms
Survival matters more than caring about other people.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize survival above all.

Where it applies

  • crisis situations
  • ethical dilemmas
  • hardship

Putting it to work

  • focus on immediate needs
  • assess priorities under pressure

Questions to consider

  • What justifies ignoring others in a crisis?
  • How much self-preservation is too much?

Another view

Pure survivalism can justify harmful actions against others.

More from William S. Burroughs

  1. Son, never listen to a priest or a policeman...the only thing they have is the key to the shithouse.

    Permalink to quote #42
  2. The mark of a basic shit is that he has to be right.

    Permalink to quote #44
  3. Shoot the bitch and write a book. That's what I did.

    Permalink to quote #41

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