Humans appear to have a built-in immune system for threats to their own well-being. If we’re about to blame ourselves for bad behavior, our minds intervene with a whitewash.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote suggests that humans have a psychological defense mechanism that protects our self-esteem and shields us from self-blame or guilt. It conveys that our minds may automatically downplay or justify our own negative behaviors or actions to protect our sense of self-worth. It implies that our minds have a built-in mechanism to preserve our self-image and mitigate the emotional distress that may arise from self-blame or guilt. However, it also suggests that self-awareness and reflection are crucial for personal growth and development, as they allow us to honestly confront our behaviors and attitudes.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Humans appear to have a built-in immune system for threats to their own well-being. If we’re about to blame ourselves for bad behavior, our minds intervene with a whitewash.” was said in the book The Truth About Trust (Summary) by David DeSteno. David DeSteno is a psychologist and author who has conducted research on the topics of emotions, social interactions, and decision-making.
* The editor of this interpretation made every effort to maintain information accuracy. This includes the source and any key ideas or meanings conveyed in it.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
