Literary notes about benevolence (AI summary)
In literature, benevolence is portrayed as both an inherent quality of human nature and a cultivated moral principle. Philosophers like Hume ([1], [2], [3]) and Sidgwick ([4], [5], [6]) use the term to discuss duty and ethical reasoning, examining its abstract implications and categorizing its various forms. In narrative works, benevolence frequently appears as a personal virtue that softens character and inspires acts of generosity and kindness—from the tender look on a character’s face in the works of Thackeray ([7]) and Crane ([8]) to the heroic, selfless deeds found in stories by Alcott ([9], [10]) and Dickens ([11]). At times, it is even seen as a political or social ideal that guides the actions of rulers and the welfare of communities ([12], [13]). This rich tapestry of interpretations underscores the enduring human aspiration toward goodwill and compassion throughout literary history.
- These and a thousand other instances are marks of a general benevolence in human nature, where no REAL interest binds us to the object.
— from An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals by David Hume - Private benevolence, therefore, is not the original motive of justice.
— from A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume - Benevolence attends both; but is connected with love in a more eminent degree.
— from An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals by David Hume - From these two rational intuitions we may deduce, as a necessary inference, the maxim of Benevolence in an abstract form: viz.
— from The Methods of Ethics by Henry Sidgwick - I before observed that the duty of Benevolence as recognised by common sense seems to fall somewhat short of this.
— from The Methods of Ethics by Henry Sidgwick - [352] I refer to the abstract principles of Prudence, Justice, and Rational Benevolence as defined in chap.
— from The Methods of Ethics by Henry Sidgwick - A tender laugh of benevolence lighted up old Dobbin's face and eyes as he looked at the repentant little prodigal.
— from Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray - His countenance shone with the true spirit of benevolence.
— from Maggie: A Girl of the Streets by Stephen Crane - Jo often watched him, trying to discover the charm, and, at last, decided that it was benevolence which worked the miracle.
— from Little Women; Or, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy by Louisa May Alcott - Jo often watched him, trying to discover the charm, and at last decided that it was benevolence which worked the miracle.
— from Little Women by Louisa May Alcott - The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence were, all, my business.
— from A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens - And so, with this loud explosion, the noise of War has ceased; an Age of Benevolence may hope, for ever.
— from The French Revolution: A History by Thomas Carlyle - The Benevolence [A voluntary contribution made by the subjects to their sovereign.
— from The Diary of Samuel Pepys — Complete by Samuel Pepys
