This statement suggests that morality can often be a way to justify negative feelings or attitudes toward individuals we do not personally like. It implies that our moral judgments are heavily influenced by personal biases and dislikes rather than an objective set of ethical principles.
The deeper meaning of this quote touches on the complexity of human nature and how our subjective experiences shape our understanding of right and wrong. Wilde is highlighting a tendency for people to apply stringent moral standards when they feel negatively about someone, using morality as a tool to distance themselves from others they dislike. This idea challenges the notion that moral principles are universally applicable and impartial, instead showing them to be inherently personal and potentially biased.
Oscar Wilde was an Irish poet and playwright known for his wit and sharp social commentary. His work often explored themes of morality and societal expectations. Born in Dublin in 1854, Wilde moved to London where he became a leading figure in the aesthetic movement and gained fame as both a writer and a celebrity.
