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It is not suffering as such that is most deeply feared but suffering that degrades.
Susan Sontag
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Interpretation

What this quote means

People fear not just suffering, but suffering that diminishes their humanity or dignity.

Susan Sontag's quote suggests that the fear we have about suffering is less about the pain itself and more about the loss of dignity and humanity that can accompany it. It emphasizes that the experience of suffering is profound not only in its intensity but also in its potential to degrade a person's sense of self and worth.

Themes

SufferingFearDignityHumanityDegradation

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a discussion about the implications of mental health issues.

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