"Too much sensibility creates unhappiness and too much insensibility creates crime"
- Charles Maurice de Talleyrand
About this Quote
This quote by Charles Maurice de Talleyrand suggests that there is a balance between being too sensitive and too insensitive. Excessive sensitivity can result in misery, as one might end up being overwhelmed by their emotions and be not able to manage them. On the other hand, excessive insensitivity can result in crime, as one might be not able to empathize with others and be more likely to act out in a harmful manner. This quote stresses the value of finding a balance between the 2 extremes, as both can lead to negative results. It is necessary to be aware of one's emotions and have the ability to reveal them in a healthy way, while also having the ability to feel sorry for others and understand their sensations. Finding this balance can assist one lead a more fulfilling and significant life.
"Addiction should never be treated as a crime. It has to be treated as a health problem. We do not send alcoholics to jail in this country. Over 500,000 people are in our jails who are nonviolent drug users"