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This life in us; however low it flickers or fiercely burns, is still a divine flame which no man dare presume to put out, be his motives never so humane and enlightened; To suppose otherwise is to countenance a death-wish; Either life is always and in all circumstances sacred, or intrinsically of no account; it is inconceivable that it should be in some cases the one, and in some the other.
Malcolm Muggeridge
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Life is inherently valuable and should be respected in all circumstances.

Malcolm Muggeridge emphasizes the sacredness of life, arguing that it possesses an intrinsic value that must not be undermined by external circumstances or motives, no matter how noble they may seem. He warns against the idea that life can be deemed less valuable in certain situations, suggesting that such a belief reflects a dangerous mindset that can lead to a disregard for life's sanctity.

Themes

LifeSacredValueIntrinsicPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on ethics, one might quote this to emphasize the importance of valuing life in all forms.

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