Doris Lessing Quotes

Self-interest is but the survival of the animal in us. Humanity only begins for man with self-surrender.

I love mankind; it's people I can't stand.

A love for humanity came over me, and watered and fertilised the fields of my inner world which had been lying fallow, and this love of humanity vented itself in a vast compassion.

I want to be remembered for having a great love for my fellow man. Because, you know, I do.

The simple act of caring is heroic.

Whoever saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind

Fraternity and compassion are written into nature's DNA.

The measure of man's humanity is the extent and intensity of his love for mankind.

The love of our private friends is the only preparatory exercise for the love of all men.

There never was any heart truly great and generous, that was not also tender and compassionate.

The brave love mercy, and delight to save.

I'm fascinated how often and with what whole-heartedness people will risk their lives to perform acts of courage, sacrifice, and compassion for total strangers.

Mankind can be very magnanimous, given the chance.

When you say you are in love with humanity, you are well satisfied with yourself.

Charity is a supreme virtue, and the great channel through which the mercy of God is passed onto mankind.

I pride myself on being kind.

Take hope from the heart of man and you make him a beast of prey.

Any beast can cry over the misfortunes of its own child. It takes a mensch to weep for others' children.

Helping someone is what life is all about.

To pity distress is but human; to relieve it is Godlike.

Rahul Gandhi is very idealistic and a very decent human being. He has real concerns for the downtrodden.

I would like to be remembered as somebody who cared a great deal about people.

Human life has meaning only to that degree and as long as it is lived in the service of humanity.

There is not enough love and goodness in the world to permit giving any of it away to imaginary beings.

The essential elements of giving are power and love - activity and affection - and the consciousness of the race testifies that in the high and appropriate exercise of these is a blessedness greater than any other.