Religion is so frequently a source of confusion in political life, and so frequently dangerous to democracy, precisely because it introduces absolutes into the realm of relative values.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
All human sin seems so much worse in its consequences than in its intentions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Human actions can often have more severe outcomes than initially intended, highlighting the complexity of morality.
This quote by Reinhold Niebuhr suggests that while people may have good intentions, the actual consequences of their actions can lead to significant harm. It highlights the disparity between intent and impact, reminding us that moral accountability is often more about the results of our actions than our original purpose, urging us to reflect on the broader implications of our decisions.
Themes
SinIntentionsConsequencesMoralityHuman Nature
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on ethics, this quote can exemplify how well-meaning decisions can lead to unforeseen negative outcomes.
More from Reinhold Niebuhr
All quotes βThe tendency to claim God as an ally for our partisan value and ends is the source of all religious fanaticism.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
The mastery of nature is vainly believed to be an adequate substitute for self mastery.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
All you earnest young men out to save the world. . . please, have a laugh.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
Forgiveness is the final form of love.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
God, give me grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
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The paradox of vengefulness is that it makes men dependent upon those who have harmed them, believing that their release from pain will come only when they make their tormentors suffer. In seeking the Bird's death to free himself, Louie had chained himself, once again, to his tyrant. During the war, the Bird had been unwilling to let go of Louie; after the war, Louie was unable to let go of the Bird.
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Oh, I may be devout, but I am human all the same.
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When you're thirsty and it seems that you could drink the entire ocean that's faith; when you start to drink and finish only a glass or two that's science.
Anton ChekhovRead
Isn't it the moment of most profound doubt that gives birth to new certainties? Perhaps hopelessness is the very soil that nourishes human hope; perhaps one could never find sense in life without first experiencing its absurdity.
Vaclav HavelRead