In his book "Long Walk to Freedom," Nelson Mandela emphasizes that hatred is not an inherent quality but rather a learned behavior. He asserts that individuals are not born with prejudice against others based on race, background, or religion. Instead, societal influences and experiences cultivate these feelings of animosity over time.

Mandela also conveys a hopeful message that if hate can be taught, so too can love. He believes that love is a more natural inclination for humanity. This powerful idea highlights the potential for personal and social transformation, suggesting that fostering love and understanding is ultimately more innate to the human experience than fostering hatred.