Religion is so frequently a source of confusion in political life, and so frequently dangerous to democracy, precisely because it introduces absolutes into the realm of relative values.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
Self-righteousness is the inevitable fruit of simple moral judgments.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Self-righteousness arises when moral judgments are made without nuance or understanding.
This quote by Reinhold Niebuhr highlights the danger of making simplistic moral judgments. When individuals assert their moral righteousness without considering the complexities of human behavior and circumstances, they risk becoming self-righteous, which can lead to a lack of empathy and an inability to engage in meaningful dialogue with others who may hold different views.
Themes
Self-RighteousnessMoral JudgmentsEmpathyNuanceComplexity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about ethical dilemmas, one might reference this quote to emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives.
More from Reinhold Niebuhr
All quotes βThe tendency to claim God as an ally for our partisan value and ends is the source of all religious fanaticism.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
The mastery of nature is vainly believed to be an adequate substitute for self mastery.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
All you earnest young men out to save the world. . . please, have a laugh.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
Forgiveness is the final form of love.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
God, give me grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed.
Reinhold NiebuhrRead
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