“The argument of growing solitude” from Nietzsche

The argument of growing solitude. — The reproaches of conscience are weak even in the most conscientious people compared to the feeling: “This or that is against the morals of your society.” A cold look or sneer on the face of those among whom and for whom one has been educated is feared even by the strongest. What is it that they are really afraid of? Growing solitude! This is the best argument that rebuts even the best arguments for a person or cause. — Thus the herd instinct speaks in us.

From Nietzsche’s The Gay Science, Kaufmann Trans.