Not to him who is offensive to us are we most unfair, but to him who doth not concern us at all.

What did Friedrich Nietzsche mean by:

Not to him who is offensive to us are we most unfair, but to him who doth not concern us at all.

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This quote suggests that we are most unjust not to those who offend us, but to those who we disregard or ignore completely. When someone offends us, we usually react, engage, or at least acknowledge them. This interaction, even if negative, recognizes their existence and worth. However, when we ignore someone or something, we deny their existence and importance outright. This indifference is the highest form of unfairness because it denies the basic human need for recognition and validation.

In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various contexts. For instance, in social issues like homelessness or poverty, the most damaging attitude is often not hostility but indifference. When people choose to ignore these issues because they believe it doesn’t concern them, they are being unfair by denying the existence and importance of these problems.

In terms of personal development, this quote could inspire us to be more conscious of our attitudes and actions towards others. It encourages us to recognize and acknowledge everyone we interact with, regardless of whether they have an immediate impact on our lives or not. This can lead to a more empathetic and inclusive attitude, which can foster personal growth and better relationships with others.

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