...That we must never forgive would seem to follow from the same stern logic. For if we forgive, it will be a sign to those in the future that they can act without fear of punishment, and that the world has a moral escape valve labeled 'forgiveness' that permits evil not only to survive but to thrive...Forgiveness becomes a 'weak' virtue, one that Christians seem particularly prone to champion, and one that always carries the possibility of condoning, rather than constricting, the spread of evil.note: opinion written about the Holocaust

Summary

This quote argues against the act of forgiveness by suggesting that it creates a moral loophole that allows evil to endure and flourish. The author believes that if forgiveness is extended without punishment, it sends a message that there are no consequences for actions, which could potentially encourage further wrongdoing. Furthermore, the author sees forgiveness as a "weak" virtue that might inadvertently enable the perpetuation of evil, rather than deterring it. This viewpoint is specifically directed towards the Holocaust and suggests that forgiveness in this context should be approached with caution.

Topics