There is something mean in human nature that prefers to think evil, that gives a willing ear and a ready welcome to calumny, a sort of jealousy of goodness and greatness and things of good report.

Summary

This quote highlights a pessimistic aspect of human nature - the tendency to be drawn towards negativity and to readily accept and believe slander or gossip. It suggests that some individuals harbor a hidden inclination to distrust and feel envious of goodness and greatness, often seeking opportunities to discredit or criticize them. This observation suggests that people may have a natural inclination to focus on the negative and to view success with suspicion or resentment.

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