We can come to look upon the deaths of our enemies with as much regret as we feel for those of our friends, namely, when we miss their existence as witnesses to our success.
Arthur SchopenhauerRead
The doctor sees all the weakness of mankind; the lawyer all the wickedness, the theologian all the stupidity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Different professions highlight distinct flaws in humanity.
In this quote, Schopenhauer suggests that each profession perceives a specific aspect of human nature: doctors focus on physical weaknesses, lawyers on moral failings, and theologians on intellectual shortcomings. This reflects a broader philosophical view that individual perspectives are shaped by oneβs experiences and roles in society, emphasizing the subjective nature of human judgment.
Themes
HumanityProfessionWeaknessMoralityIntellect
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of understanding different perspectives in society.
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We will gradually become indifferent to what goes on in the minds of other people when we acquire a knowledge of the superficial nature of their thoughts, the narrowness of their views and of the number of their errors. Whoever attaches a lot of value to the opinions of others pays them too much honor.
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