“We all show false faces to the world, and a good thing too, for a hundred reasons. We should be consistent with our friends and lovers, so as not to be unkind. But if in your heart you are not kind, it's better to be false, to act kindly even if you don't feel it, because the deed is important and not the reason for it.That kind of falsity is the triumph of our civilization.”
Explore This Quote Further
Example of Usage
In his book, Philip Pullman discusses the idea of showing false faces to the world for various reasons. He argues that sometimes it is better to act kindly even if one does not feel it in their heart, as the deed itself is more important than the reason behind it. This kind of falsity, he believes, is a triumph of our civilization.
Analysis of Quote by Philip Pullman
In this quote, Philip Pullman emphasizes the importance of showing false faces to the world for the sake of being kind and maintaining relationships. He suggests that sometimes it is better to act kindly even if one does not genuinely feel it in their heart. Pullman argues that this kind of falsity is necessary in our civilization as it prioritizes deeds over intentions. This quote prompts reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the importance of maintaining societal harmony through acts of kindness, even if they may not always align with our true feelings.
Modern Relevance
In today's society, where social media and image-consciousness are prevalent, the idea of presenting a false face to the world is more relevant than ever. Philip Pullman's quote highlights the importance of kindness and consistency in our interactions with others, even if it means being somewhat inauthentic at times. This concept of balancing authenticity with kindness can lead to greater harmony in relationships and a more civilized society.
Reflection Questions:
In his quote, Philip Pullman raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of authenticity and kindness. Consider the following reflection questions:
Do you believe it is better to act kindly even if you do not truly feel it, or is it more important to always be genuine in your interactions with others?
How do you navigate the balance between showing your true self and maintaining kindness in your relationships?
Can you think of a time when you acted kindly despite not feeling it in your heart? How did that experience impact your relationship with the other person?
How does society's emphasis on consistency and politeness influence the way we present ourselves to the world?
Reflect on a time when someone showed kindness to you, even if they may not have truly felt it. How did their actions make you feel?
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