Scandal breeds hatred; hatred begets division; division makes faction, and faction brings ruin

Scandal breeds hatred; hatred begets division; division makes faction, and faction brings ruin

Francis Quarles was a 17th-century English poet known for his religious and moralistic works. His writings often explored themes of virtue, vice, and the consequences of human behavior. One of his most famous quotes, "Scandal breeds hatred; hatred begets division; division makes faction, and faction brings ruin," encapsulates the destructive nature of gossip and discord in society.

Quarles understood the power of scandal to incite hatred among individuals. When rumors and falsehoods are spread about someone, it can lead to feelings of animosity and resentment. This hatred can fester and grow, creating a toxic environment of distrust and hostility. Quarles recognized that once hatred takes root, it can be difficult to uproot, leading to further division among people.

Division, according to Quarles, is the natural consequence of hatred. When individuals are pitted against each other, whether through gossip, misunderstandings, or personal grievances, it creates a rift that separates them. This division can manifest in various forms, such as social, political, or religious differences, further exacerbating the discord and animosity between people.

As division deepens, factions begin to form. These factions are groups of individuals who share common interests or beliefs and band together against perceived enemies. Factions can be divisive and destructive, as they often prioritize their own agendas over the greater good. Quarles understood that when factions emerge, they can lead to infighting, power struggles, and ultimately, ruin.

The ruin that Quarles speaks of is the inevitable consequence of scandal, hatred, division, and faction. When society is torn apart by gossip, animosity, and discord, it becomes vulnerable to collapse. The fabric of community is frayed, trust is eroded, and chaos reigns. Quarles warns that if we allow scandal to breed hatred, and hatred to beget division, we risk sowing the seeds of our own destruction.