ignorance of the Other engenders fear; fear engenders hatred; hatred engenders violence; violence engenders further violence until the only rights, the only law, are whatever is willed by the most powerful.
In David Mitchell's novel "Cloud Atlas", the author explores the cycle that stems from ignorance toward others. This ignorance leads to fear, which can easily develop into hatred. When people don't understand or know about others, the natural response may be a fearful one, resulting in negative emotions and an unwillingness to connect.
This chain reaction shows how hatred can spiral into violence, creating a cycle that perpetuates itself. As violence continues, it undermines rights and laws, leading to a situation where the most powerful dictate the rules. Ultimately, this highlights the dangers of misunderstanding and the importance of empathy in promoting peace and coexistence.