Quote by George Orwell

One of the effects of a safe and civilized life is an immense oversensitiveness which makes all the primary emotions somewhat disgusting. Generosity is as painful as meanness, gratitude as hateful as ingratitude.

One of the effects of a safe and civilized life is an immens

Summary

This quote suggests that living in a secure and civilized society can lead to an overwhelming level of sensitivity. As a result, even basic emotions like generosity and gratitude become unpleasant experiences. The implication is that the comfort and safety of modern life make individuals more cynical and perceiving acts of kindness or expressions of gratitude as burdens or insincere gestures. This highlights how societal development and security can sometimes lead to a diminished appreciation and understanding of genuine emotions.

Topics

Kindness

By George Orwell

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