The quote "We often quarrel with the unfortunate to get rid of pitying them" suggests that people often engage in conflict with those who are suffering in order to distance themselves from feelings of compassion or empathy. The act of quarreling serves as a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to suppress their empathy and thus avoid the emotional discomfort that comes with it.

This behavior can be seen as a form of self-preservation, as feeling pity for someone else often involves acknowledging their pain and suffering, which can be emotionally taxing. By creating conflict, individuals can shift their focus from the other person’s plight to the argument at hand, thereby avoiding the emotional toll of empathy.

In today’s world, this concept can be seen in various contexts. For instance, in online spaces where people often engage in heated debates over social issues. Sometimes, these debates can become personal and hostile, which could be a way for individuals to avoid confronting the realities of the issues being discussed, and by extension, the suffering of those affected by them.

In terms of personal development, understanding this concept can help individuals become more aware of their emotional responses and how they may be influencing their interactions with others. Recognizing when one is creating conflict to avoid feelings of pity can be a step towards developing more genuine and empathetic relationships. It can also encourage individuals to confront their discomfort with empathy and work towards becoming more comfortable with these feelings.

Moreover, this understanding can help individuals navigate and resolve conflicts more effectively. By recognizing when they are engaging in conflict to avoid feelings of pity, individuals can address the root cause of the conflict, rather than getting caught up in the argument itself.