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Neutral men are the devil's allies.
Edwin Hubbel Chapin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Indifference or neutrality in moral matters can contribute to evil.

This quote suggests that individuals who choose to remain neutral or indifferent in the face of wrongdoing inadvertently support the perpetuation of evil. By not taking a stand or speaking out against injustice, these 'neutral men' become complicit, acting as allies to those who commit morally reprehensible acts. The implication is that moral courage is essential to combat evil and uphold justice.

Themes

NeutralityEvilMoral CourageComplicityIndifference

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on social justice, this quote can emphasize the importance of taking a stand.

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A true man never frets about his place in the world, but just slides into it by the gravitation of his nature, and swings there as easily as a star.
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