"Selfishness is that detestable vice which no one will forgive in others, and no one is without himself"

Henry Ward Beecher's quote talks to the axiom that selfishness is a characteristic that is universally disliked. It is a vice that is seen as inappropriate in others, yet it is something that everybody is guilty of at some point in their lives. This quote highlights the hypocrisy of human nature, as we are quick to judge and slam others for their selfishness, yet we often stop working to acknowledge our own. It is a pointer that we ought to aim to be more generous and considerate of others, rather than constantly keeping an eye out for our own interests. It is likewise a reminder that we must make every effort to be more forgiving of others, as we are all guilty of selfishness at some time in our lives. Ultimately, this quote functions as a pointer that we should aim to be more understanding and flexible of others, and to be more conscious of our own selfishness.