Life is a near-death experience.
George CarlinRead
If everyone in the world sat quietly at the same time, closed their eyes and concentrated as hard as they could on peace and goodwill, all the killing and cruelty in the world would continue. And probably increase.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that merely wishing for peace is not enough; action is needed to create a better world.
George Carlin's quote reflects a critical view on the effectiveness of thoughts and intentions in achieving peace. He implies that while many people may sit quietly and wish for goodwill, without tangible actions to address the root causes of conflict and cruelty, the negativity in the world will persist and may even worsen. This serves as a commentary on the importance of proactive efforts rather than passive wishing.
Themes
PeaceGoodwillActionCrueltyConflict
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a discussion about the importance of active involvement in peace-building efforts.
More from George Carlin
All quotes →Here’s a bumper sticker I’d like to see: “We are the proud parents of a child who’s self-esteem is sufficient that he doesn’t need us promoting his minor scholastic achievements on the back of our car."
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This is a lttle prayer dedicated to the separation of church and state. I guess if they are going to force those kids to pray in schools they might as well have a nice prayer like this: Our Father who art in heaven, and to the republic for which it stands, thy kingdom come, one nation indivisible as in heaven, give us this day as we forgive those who so proudly we hail. Crown thy good into temptation but deliver us from the twilight's last gleaming. Amen and Awomen.
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Some people try to get out of jury duty by lying. You don't have to lie. Tell the judge the truth. Tell him you'd make a terrific juror because you can spot guilty people.
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Intelligence tests are biased toward the literate.
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