"It is just like man's vanity and impertinence to call an animal dumb because it is dumb to his dull perceptions. Heaven is by favor; if it were by merit your dog would go in and you would stay out. Of all the creatures ever made he (man) is the most detestable. Of the entire brood, he is the only one...that possesses malice. He is the only creature that inflicts pain for sport, knowing it to be pain. The fact that man knows right from wrong proves his intellectual superiority to the other creatures; but the fact that he can do wrong proves his moral inferiority to any creature that cannot."

57 likes

Source: Mark Twain (2016). “Joan of Arc”, p.15, Ignatius Press

About the author

Mark Twain

Writer, Humorist

Mark Twain was a prominent American writer known for his sharp wit and social critiques, particularly in 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.'

All quotes by Mark Twain →

Same author

More quotes by Mark Twain

See all →
Mark Twain Writer, Humorist

"Life is short, Break the Rules. Forgive quickly, Kiss slowly. Love truly. Laugh uncontrollably And never regret ANYTHING That makes you smile."

Read quote