Human, All Too Human, Part 36 summary
Part 36 of 152 · 2 min to read the part
In 36, the speaker questions whether psychological observation improves life, suggesting that faith in human goodness may better support happiness and social trust. The objection distinguishes social welfare from knowledge of truth and presents searching criticism of motives as an art that can encourage contempt for humanity.
What happens
- The speaker asks whether the unpleasant effects of psychological observation justify turning away from it.
- Faith in goodness and reluctance to expose motives may contribute more to happiness and trust than psychological insight.
- Admiring and imitating Plutarch's heroes may benefit society without increasing knowledge.
- La Rochefoucauld offers a suspicious account of virtue as a disguise for passions.
- French investigators of motives and a German counterpart resemble skilled marksmen targeting human faults, provoking humanitarian objections.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Human, All Too Human: A Book for Free Spirits, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this part
What to notice
The question frames the objection: psychological insight may have harmful effects that make its value for human life uncertain.
Quick check
What benefit may belief in human goodness produce?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Human, All Too Human: A Book for Free Spirits, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
