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We kill at every step, not only in wars, riots and executions. We kill when we close our eyes to poverty, suffering and shame.In the same way all disrespect for life, all hard-heartedness,all indifference, all contempt is nothing else than killing.
Hermann Hesse
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes that harm can occur in many forms beyond physical violence, including neglect and indifference toward others' suffering.

Hermann Hesse's quote illustrates that the act of killing is not solely limited to direct violence such as wars and executions; it can also manifest in our inaction and disregard for the suffering of others. By highlighting the consequences of indifference, hard-heartedness, and contempt, Hesse challenges us to recognize that our moral responsibility extends to alleviating the pain and poverty around us, thus promoting a more compassionate and conscientious way of living.

Themes

IndifferenceCompassionSufferingViolenceLifeAwareness

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech about social justice, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of awareness and action against poverty.

More from Hermann Hesse

I shall no longer be instructed by the Yoga Veda or the Aharva Veda, or the ascetics, or any other doctrine whatsoever. I shall learn from myself, be a pupil of myself; I shall get to know myself, the mystery of Siddhartha." He looked around as if he were seeing the world for the first time.
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That is where my dearest and brightest dreams have ranged — to hear for the duration of a heartbeat the universe and the totality of life in its mysterious, innate harmony.
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I, also, would like to look and smile, sit and walk like that, so free, so worthy, so restrained, so candid, so childlike and mysterious. A man only looks and walks like that when he has conquered his Self. I also will conquer my Self.
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You're quite right there," he said. "I have practiced abstinence myself for years, and had my time of fasting, too, but now I find myself once more beneath the sign of Aquarius, a dark and humid constellation.
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I call that man awake who, with conscious knowledge and understanding, can perceive the deep unreasoning powers in his soul, his whole innermost strength, desire and weakness, and knows how to reckon with himself.
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Despair is the result of each earnest attempt to go through life with virtue, justice and understanding, and to fulfill their requirements. Children live on one side of despair, the awakened on the other side.
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