There is nothing respecting which a man may be so long unconscious as of the extent and strength of his prejudices.
Interpretation
People often remain unaware of their own biases and preconceived notions.
This quote suggests that individuals can be oblivious to the deep-rooted prejudices they hold, which can shape their perceptions and actions. It highlights the importance of self-awareness and reflection in uncovering these biases to lead a more enlightened and objective life.
In practice
In a discussion about diversity, one could use this quote to emphasize the need for awareness of personal biases.
Look at Satan. Created as an angel, grows up to be the Great Adversary. Hey, if you’re going to go on about genetics, you might as well say the kid will grow up to be an angel. After all, his father was really big in Heaven in the old days. Saying he’ll grow up to be a demon just because his dad became one is like saying a mouse with its tail cut off will give birth to tailless mice. No. Upbringing is everything. Take it from me.
Among us, in our part of the country, those who are upright are different from this. The father conceals the misconduct of the son, and the son conceals the misconduct of the father. Uprightness is to be found in this.
Though silence is not necessarily an admission, it is not a denial, either.
Peace of heart that is won by refusing to bear the common yoke of human sympathy is a peace unworthy of a Christian. To seek tranquility by stopping our ears to the cries of human pain is to make ourselves not Christian but a kind of degenerate stoic having no relation either to stoicism or Christianity.
Wherever we go, wherever we remain, the results of our actions follow us.
Welcome to the Desert of the Real.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.