"اعمال ظلم با وجدان آسوده برای اخلاق‌گرایان لذتبخش است به همین دلیل آنها جهنم را اختراع کردند"

This quote touches on the unsettling idea that some people, especially those who consider themselves morally superior, take a twisted pleasure in being cruel when they believe they're justified. Think about someone who feels righteous in their actions, even when those actions cause harm. They might not see themselves as cruel—they believe they're upholding some higher moral standard. In essence, it's a critique of how moral judgments can sometimes be used to justify terrible behavior. The reference to Hell, a place of eternal punishment, serves as a powerful metaphor for the lengths to which people can go when they think they're acting rightly.

Historically, this quote resonates with the actions of certain religious or political figures who, convinced of their moral superiority, have committed atrocities. Imagine the medieval Inquisitors, who tortured and executed people they deemed heretics. They believed they were saving souls from damnation, so their cruelty felt justified and even righteous. This mentality isn't confined to history, though. It pops up whenever someone uses their moral beliefs to justify harm—whether it's a rigid parent punishing their child or a politician enacting harmful policies against marginalized groups.

To see this idea in action, let's look at a real-life example. Picture a community leader who strongly believes in the importance of traditional values. They might push for policies that punish people who don't conform—like banning certain books or discriminating against LGBTQ+ individuals. They genuinely believe they're protecting society's moral fabric. Yet, for those on the receiving end, this 'righteous' behavior feels like cruelty. The leader's good conscience allows them to inflict harm without hesitation, convinced they're doing the right thing.

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our own lives? Start by questioning your motivations, especially when you feel morally justified. Are you really helping or merely enforcing your beliefs on others? Practice empathy—try to see the situation from the perspective of those affected by your actions. This doesn't mean abandoning your values, but it does mean being wary of self-righteousness. Recognizing the potential for cruelty in your actions, even when well-intentioned, can help you act more compassionately.

Imagine you're a teacher dealing with a disruptive student. You believe in strict discipline and think a harsh punishment will set an example. But before acting, consider the student's perspective. Maybe they're struggling with issues at home. Instead of immediate punishment, try talking to them first—understanding their situation might change your approach. By questioning your initial impulse and considering the broader context, you can avoid the trap of justified cruelty.

Picture a young professional named Sarah. She's passionate about environmental conservation and often criticizes her colleagues' wasteful habits. She believes she's in the right, but her harsh comments create a hostile work environment. One day, a colleague points out how her approach feels judgmental. Sarah realizes that her good intentions have led her to be unkind. She decides to change her tactics, focusing on positive reinforcement and leading by example. Over time, her colleagues become more conscious of their habits—without feeling attacked.

This concept reminds us that our sense of righteousness can sometimes blind us to the harm we cause. It's a call to be more self-aware and empathetic, ensuring our actions align with our values in a truly compassionate way. So next time you're about to act on a moral conviction, pause and reflect: are you being kind, or just self-righteous?