"Half the harm that is done in this world is due to people who want to feel important. They don’t mean to do harm, but the harm [that they cause] does not interest them. Or they do not see it, or they justify it because they are absorbed in the endless struggle to think well of themselves.”~ TS Eliot

"Half the harm that is done in this world is due to people who want to feel important. They don’t mean to do harm, but the harm [that they cause] does not interest them. Or they do not see it, or they justify it because they are absorbed in the endless struggle to think well of themselves.”

~ TS Eliot, The Cocktail Party

This quote by T.S. Eliot delves into the nature of human actions and their unintended consequences. Eliot suggests that much of the harm in the world arises not from malicious intent but from the pursuit of self-importance. Individuals often become so engrossed in their need to feel significant that they overlook or rationalize the negative impacts of their actions. This desire for self-validation can lead to a kind of moral blindness where the well-being of others becomes secondary to one's own psychological needs.

The quote highlights a fundamental aspect of human behavior: the internal struggle to maintain a positive self-image. When people are absorbed in this struggle, they may unconsciously prioritize their self-worth over ethical considerations, leading to harm that they neither intend nor fully acknowledge. This introspection serves as a reminder of the importance of self-awareness and empathy, urging individuals to consider the broader implications of their actions and strive for a balance between self-respect and respect for others. 

Ultimately, Eliot's words challenge us to reflect on our motivations and the unseen consequences of our quest for personal significance, advocating for a more conscientious and compassionate approach to our interactions with the world.