The quote from Max Brooks' "World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War" invites reflection on the potential of humanity beyond its inherent qualities. The idea suggests that if people could let go of their emotional and moral constraints, they might achieve extraordinary feats. This perspective challenges the reader to consider the balance between compassion and survival in dire circumstances.

The context of the quote highlights the struggle between maintaining human values and the primal instincts that emerge during catastrophic events like a zombie apocalypse. It sparks a debate on whether embracing a more ruthless, survival-oriented mindset can lead to greater accomplishments when faced with existential threats.