[Sorry, Steven. Condescending is just his natural tone. There's no helping it.]
Morality is not quite something one is born with. There are those who can be naturally inclined towards such, this is true, but more oft than not morality is learned. It is what one believes, how one conducts themselves with others and within their society, what intent guides their actions and the perceived impact. The harm said actions brings, and what they do when they infringe upon these morals, or when they upset the balance.
Hythlodaeus has atypical desires, but how he contends with such desires is morally fueled. Violence is in the heart of all men, and if one is not careful, it will consume them. We ancients are no different, we simply choose to act in the betterment of our peers, rather than to destroy them and ourselves with such abhorrent acts. You too could choose otherwise.
But it does seem you are confused, what you name standards are morals. The two are much the same, the indignation that burns within your bosom when said standards are infringed upon is moral outrage. The more you separate yourself from the group, the more you rob yourself of brotherhood by renaming the very tools you utilize to structure the world you experience, the more you will stray from the path of control and seeing your place within your world.
Solitude--socially, emotionally, and all of that--is no way to live.
As for your apology. It is duly noted. At this time, I cannot truly speak upon it, and it would be churlish of me to misspeak on such a matter. Perhaps a conversation for another time.
no subject
Morality is not quite something one is born with. There are those who can be naturally inclined towards such, this is true, but more oft than not morality is learned. It is what one believes, how one conducts themselves with others and within their society, what intent guides their actions and the perceived impact. The harm said actions brings, and what they do when they infringe upon these morals, or when they upset the balance.
Hythlodaeus has atypical desires, but how he contends with such desires is morally fueled. Violence is in the heart of all men, and if one is not careful, it will consume them. We ancients are no different, we simply choose to act in the betterment of our peers, rather than to destroy them and ourselves with such abhorrent acts. You too could choose otherwise.
But it does seem you are confused, what you name standards are morals. The two are much the same, the indignation that burns within your bosom when said standards are infringed upon is moral outrage. The more you separate yourself from the group, the more you rob yourself of brotherhood by renaming the very tools you utilize to structure the world you experience, the more you will stray from the path of control and seeing your place within your world.
Solitude--socially, emotionally, and all of that--is no way to live.
As for your apology. It is duly noted. At this time, I cannot truly speak upon it, and it would be churlish of me to misspeak on such a matter. Perhaps a conversation for another time.