Everything in nature is the result of fixed laws.
Charles DarwinRead
Man with all his noble qualities, with sympathy which feels for the most debased, with benevolence which extends not only to other men but to the humblest living creature, with his god-like intellect which has penetrated into the movements and constitution of the solar system- with all these exalted powers- Man still bears in his bodily frame the indelible stamp of his lowly origin.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the duality of human existence, highlighting the contrast between our elevated qualities and our humble beginnings.
Charles Darwin's quote explores the complexity of human nature, suggesting that despite our remarkable achievements, intellect, and compassion, we are fundamentally rooted in our biological and evolutionary heritage. It underscores the idea that while we have developed profound capabilities and moral understanding, we remain tied to our primitive origins, reminding us of the inherent tensions between our noble aspirations and our basic instincts.
Themes
HumanityNatureEvolutionIntellectCompassion
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of empathy in leadership.
More from Charles Darwin
All quotes →The highest possible stage in moral culture is when we recognize that we ought to control our thoughts.
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I am quite conscious that my speculations run beyond the bounds of true science....It is a mere rag of an hypothesis with as many flaw[s] & holes as sound parts.
Charles DarwinRead
We cannot fathom the marvelous complexity of an organic being; but on the hypothesis here advanced this complexity is much increased. Each living creature must be looked at as a microcosm--a little universe, formed of a host of self-propagating organisms, inconceivably minute and as numerous as the stars in heaven.
Charles DarwinRead
I have called this principle, by which each slight variation, if useful, is preserved, by the term of Natural Selection.
Charles DarwinRead
we are always slow in admitting any great change of which we do not see the intermediate steps
Charles DarwinRead
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