What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
If a group of beings from another planet were to land on Earth - beings who considered themselves as superior to you as you feel yourself to be to other animals - would you concede them the rights over you that you assume over other animals?
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote challenges the moral implications of human superiority over other beings.
George Bernard Shaw's quote provokes thought about the ethical treatment of other species by asking us to reflect on how we would feel if a more advanced group treated humans the way we treat animals. It serves as a critique of anthropocentrism, urging readers to consider the rights and dignity of all creatures, regardless of their perceived intelligence or status.
Themes
EthicsSuperiorityRightsAnimalsHumans
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on animal rights, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of considering the dignity of all living beings.
More from George Bernard Shaw
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
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Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
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Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
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