Calling someone a monster does not make him more guilty; it makes him less so by classing him with beasts and devils

Calling someone a monster does not make him more guilty; it makes him less so by classing him with beasts and devils

Mary McCarthy was a renowned American writer and critic known for her sharp wit and incisive commentary on society and culture. In her work, she often explored the complexities of human nature and the ways in which individuals are judged and classified by society. One of McCarthy's most famous quotes is, "Calling someone a monster does not make him more guilty; it makes him less so by classing him with beasts and devils."

This quote speaks to McCarthy's belief in the importance of understanding and empathy when it comes to judging others. By labeling someone as a "monster," we are dehumanizing them and reducing their actions to mere animalistic or demonic behavior. This not only simplifies the complexities of human behavior but also absolves the individual of their agency and responsibility.

McCarthy's words remind us that it is easy to dismiss someone as a monster or a villain, but doing so only serves to distance ourselves from the reality of their actions and motivations. By classifying someone as a beast or a devil, we are denying their humanity and refusing to engage with the deeper issues at play.