"To think ill of mankind and not wish ill to them, is perhaps the highest wisdom and virtue"
- William Hazlitt
About this Quote
This quote by William Hazlitt talks to the idea that it is a good idea to think ill of mankind, however not to want ill upon them. This is a difficult principle to comprehend, as it is natural to wish to secure ourselves from those who may do us harm. Nevertheless, Hazlitt is recommending that it is more virtuous to acknowledge the capacity for harm, but to not act upon it. This is a difficult balance to keep, as it needs us to be knowledgeable about the capacity for harm, however to not let it cloud our judgement. It is a suggestion to be conscious of our own predispositions and to not let them dictate our actions. It is a pointer to be thoughtful and understanding, even when faced with difficult situations. Ultimately, Hazlitt is recommending that it is smart to understand the capacity for harm, but to not let it dictate our actions.
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