We know that we are evil, but there is no will in us and no power to resist it.
 Ayn Rand, Anthem (1938). copy citation

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Author Ayn Rand
Source Anthem
Topic evil power
Date 1938
Language English
Reference
Note
Weblink https://www.gutenberg.org/files/1250/1250-h/1250-h.htm

Context

““There is evil in your bones, Equality 7-2521, for your body has grown beyond the bodies of your brothers.” But we cannot change our bones nor our body. We were born with a curse. It has always driven us to thoughts which are forbidden. It has always given us wishes which men may not wish. We know that we are evil, but there is no will in us and no power to resist it. This is our wonder and our secret fear, that we know and do not resist. We strive to be like all our brother men, for all men must be alike. Over the portals of the Palace of the World Council, there are words cut in the marble, which we repeat to ourselves whenever we are tempted:” source