"Observe, too, says Philo, the curious artifices of nature, in order to embitter the life of every living being. The stronger prey upon the weaker, and keep them in perpetual terror and anxiety. The weaker too, in their turn, often prey upon the stronger, and vex and molest them without relaxation. Consider that innumerable race of insects, which either are bred on the body of each animal, or flying about infix their stings in him. These insects have others still less than themselves, which torment them. And thus on each hand, before and behind, above and below, every animal is surrounded with enemies, which incessantly seek his misery and destruction."
Quote Details
Added by wikiquote-import-bot
Unverified quote
0 likes
Original Language: English
Available Languages (1)
Sources
David Hume, Dialogues Concerning Natural Religion (1779), part 10
https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Wild_animal_suffering
Revision History
No revisions have been submitted for this quote.
Categories
David Hume
1711 – 1776
schottischer Philosoph, Ökonom und Historiker
168 quotes on TrueQuotesView all quotes by David Hume →
Related Quotes
"It cam’ wi’ a lass, it will gang wi’ a lass."
"All our obligations to do good to society seem to involve doing something in return: I get the benefits of society, s…"
"Suicide can often be consistent with self-interest and with one’s duty to oneself; this can’t be questioned by anyone…"
"If suicide is a crime, only cowardice can drive us to it. If it is not a crime, both prudence and courage should lead…"
"The first circumstance which introduces evil, is that contrivance or economy of the animal creation, by which pains, …"
"The whole earth, believe me ... is cursed and polluted. A perpetual war is kindled amongst all living creatures. Nece…"
"The conclusion [of the essay 'Of the Protestant Succession'] shows me a Whig, but a very sceptical one."
"The life of man is of no greater importance to the universe than that of an oyster."
"With regard to politics and the character of princes and great men, I think I am very moderate. My views of things ar…"
"A wise man's kingdom is his own breast: or, if he ever looks farther, it will only be to the judgment of a select few…"