If there was less sympathy in the world, there would be less trouble in the world

If there was less sympathy in the world, there would be less trouble in the world

Oscar Wilde, the renowned Irish playwright, poet, and author, was known for his sharp wit and clever observations on society. One of his famous quotes, "If there was less sympathy in the world, there would be less trouble in the world," speaks to the idea that excessive sympathy can sometimes lead to more harm than good.

In Wilde's time, the Victorian era, there was a strong emphasis on propriety and social norms. Sympathy was often seen as a virtue, a sign of compassion and kindness. However, Wilde believed that too much sympathy could lead to enabling bad behavior or perpetuating injustice. He saw how people could use sympathy as a way to manipulate others or avoid taking responsibility for their actions.