Quote of the day by Amartya Sen: “Nor let us be resentful when others differ from us. For all men have hearts, and…”

Quote of the day by Amartya Sen: “Nor let us be resentful when others differ from us. For all men have hearts, and…”

• Amartya Sen urges empathy and understanding in disagreements, not resentment
• Sen's philosophy: moral certainty can blind us to others' perspectives.
• Dialogue and curiosity foster coexistence in a polarised society

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In today’s polarised world, where opinions are shouted across social media and disagreement is often treated as hostility, Amartya Sen’s words feel like a balm. Sen once said, “Nor let us be resentful when others differ from us. For all men have hearts, and each heart has its own leanings. Their right is our wrong, and our right is their wrong.”  He conveyed that when your thoughts differ from that of others, instead of responding with resentment, recognise difference as a natural condition of human life.

Amartya Sen is an Indian economist and philosopher, Nobel Prize laureate, and global thinker known for his work on welfare economics, social justice, democracy, and human capabilities, influencing policy, ethics, and development thinking worldwide. In a world obsessed with winning arguments, Amartya Sen’s words remind us to understand hearts.

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What does the quote mean?

Sen challenges the assumption that moral certainty belongs to any one group. By saying “their right is our wrong,” he highlights how truth often depends on perspective. This does not mean all views are equally valid, but it does mean that disagreement should invite understanding rather than anger. Sen’s words encourage empathy. They ask to pause, listen, and consider why someone might think differently instead of instantly judging them as ignorant or malicious.

Why this idea matters today

In the present age, disagreement is often personalised. People are “cancelled,” unfriended, or attacked for holding different views. Sen’s philosophy reminds us that a healthy society depends on dialogue, not dominance. When we accept that others are guided by their own moral compasses, we reduce hatred and make space for coexistence. Democracies, workplaces, and even families function better when difference is met with curiosity rather than resentment.

Lessons from the quote

Empathy strengthens disagreement

Understanding does not weaken your stance; it deepens it.

Moral certainty can be dangerous

Absolute confidence in being right often blinds us to complexity.

Difference is not disrespect

Someone opposing your view is not necessarily opposing your humanity.

Dialogue beats division

Progress emerges from conversation, not condemnation.

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Humility is intellectual strength

Accepting limits to your own perspective is wisdom, not weakness.

How to practise this mindset today

• Pause before reacting to opinions you dislike.
• Ask why someone believes what they believe, instead of planning a rebuttal.
• Consume viewpoints beyond your comfort zone.
• Disagree firmly, but without dehumanising language.
• Remember that being right matters less than being humane.