A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
The Christians are right: it is Pride which has been the chief cause of misery in every nation and every family since the world began.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Pride leads to suffering and discord in society and within families.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes the detrimental effects of pride, suggesting that it is a fundamental flaw that contributes to the unhappiness and strife faced by individuals and communities throughout history. He implies that this arrogance disrupts harmony and fosters conflict, serving as a common thread in the misfortunes experienced across nations and families alike.
Themes
PrideMiseryHarmonyFamiliesSuffering
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about community values, this quote can highlight the importance of humility.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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