“It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world and moral courage so rare.”
- November 30, 1835 – April 21, 1910
- American
- Author, humorist, and lecturer
- Wrote masterpieces such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” and had a major influence on American literature
Quote
“It is curious that physical courage should be so common in the world and moral courage so rare.”
Explanation
Mark Twain’s quote reflects on the discrepancy between physical courage—the bravery required to face physical danger or risk—and moral courage, which involves standing up for what is right or just, even in the face of social pressure or personal consequence. Twain finds it curious that while people often exhibit bravery in physical situations—such as fighting in wars, performing dangerous tasks, or facing threats to their safety—moral courage, which demands standing up for principles, is much rarer. The humor lies in the irony that, while physical courage is often celebrated and valued, moral courage, which may require greater conviction and personal sacrifice, is frequently absent or ignored in comparison.
Twain’s comment critiques society’s values, where the bravery to fight or face danger is often considered a virtue, but the moral courage required to confront injustice, inequality, or wrongdoing within society is much harder to find. Moral courage can be much more difficult to summon, as it often involves going against the majority, personal interests, or popular opinion, which can have significant consequences. Twain’s words underscore the idea that true courage is not just about facing physical danger, but about standing firm in one’s beliefs and values, especially when it is inconvenient or unpopular.
In modern times, this quote remains relevant in discussions about activism, social justice, and the role of individuals in society. It’s easy to admire physical courage in actions like soldiers in battle, firefighters, or athletes, but it takes greater fortitude to speak out against injustice or corruption, especially when it means going against powerful forces or facing personal loss. Twain’s words remind us that while physical courage is widely admired, the more important and rarer form of courage may be moral courage, which is necessary to bring about meaningful change in society.
