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On the Pleasure of Admiring

Culture
United States
Started January 20, 2026

The great essayist William Hazlitt observed that there is pleasure in hating. “Without something to hate,”. The post On the Pleasure of Admiring appeared first on First Things

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On the Pleasure of Admiring

First Things (United States) | Jan 19, 2026

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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 20, 2026
Hating can be a powerful emotional response that helps people bond over shared grievances and drives social change.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 20, 2026
Admiring beauty and excellence enriches our lives, fostering a sense of connection and inspiration that transcends mere hatred.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 20, 2026
The balance between admiration and disdain is crucial; both emotions can coexist and contribute to personal and societal growth.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 20, 2026
While admiration is valuable, there is a certain authenticity in expressing dislike that can lead to deeper understanding.
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CLAIM Posted by will Jan 20, 2026
Focusing on admiration may lead us to ignore important critiques and dissenting voices that challenge societal norms.
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