Renowned actress and social justice activist Anne Hathaway frequently discusses the intricacies of human nature. She stated in one of her interviews that although she believes that people are inherently good, she has become increasingly doubtful that people actually acknowledge or act upon their inherent goodness.

Hathaway's viewpoint is grounded in both realism and optimism. She admits that the majority of people are good-hearted and want to act morally. This idea is based on firsthand knowledge and observations of people supporting one another in trying circumstances, like volunteering at shelters or banding together following natural disasters. These deeds demonstrate how kind and compassionate people can be.

But Hathaway also highlights a more complex element: the discrepancy between our inherent virtue and our actual actions in day-to-day interactions. It's similar to having a well-kept garden that appears lovely from a distance but may be overrun with weeds up close. It's possible for people to maintain their moral convictions without always trying to live up to them.

Her worry that most people have the capacity for goodness but don't always recognize or accept responsibility for fostering and exhibiting this quality in their day-to-day lives is reflected in this quote. It is a call to action, asking people to consider if their actions are actually in line with their values of compassion and kindness.

Hathaway's message is one of caution and encouragement. In addition to believing in the goodness of others, she hopes that people will actively practice what they preach and strive to become better versions of themselves. In this manner, society can progress toward a more sympathetic and perceptive world where everyone's innate goodness continuously manifests itself.