Human, All Too Human, Part 57 summary
Part 57 of 152 · 1 min to read the part
In 57, the speaker examines an author, a lover, a soldier, and a mother to argue that apparent selflessness expresses a preference within the self. Each sacrifices one part of personal life for another, so ethical action becomes a division within the person rather than an escape from self-interest.
What happens
- An author welcomes complete refutation if it makes his subject clear.
- A woman in love wishes to prove her faithfulness through her beloved's betrayal.
- A soldier values his country's victory above his life, while a mother gives her child resources she denies herself.
- The speaker argues that each person favors one part of the self and sacrifices another.
- A comparison with an obstinate man challenges the distinction between moral sacrifice and stubborn preference.
- The argument concludes that ethical conduct expresses a divided rather than an indivisible self.
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In this part
What to notice
The closing sentence condenses the argument: moral sacrifice divides a person's interests instead of removing personal desire.
Quick check
Why does the author welcome refutation?
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