The statement reflects on the nature of pain and its impact on humanity. The author suggests that our sensitivity to pain, both in ourselves and others, differentiates us from animals. While animals may experience pain, humans have the capacity to think about it and feel sickened by its presence, indicating a deeper level of consciousness.

This perspective posits that as long as pain influences our thoughts and actions, we remain closely tied to our animal instincts. The text emphasizes an idea that true humanity lies in our ability to reflect on pain and its moral implications, thus challenging us to rise above our primal experiences and to think more profoundly about the suffering we encounter.