V.E.L.M. (Vivi e lascia morire)

V.E.L.M., standing for "Vivi e lascia morire," is an Italian phrase that translates to "Live and let die" in English. It represents a philosophy or attitude that emphasizes self-preservation and personal freedom above all else. The core tenet is to prioritize one's own life and well-being without actively harming others, but also without necessarily intervening to prevent harm from befalling them.

The phrase suggests a detachment from the troubles and fates of others, advocating for a focus on one's own existence and goals. It promotes non-interference and a passive approach to potentially negative situations involving other individuals. "Vivi e lascia morire" implies a degree of self-reliance and an acceptance of the natural order, where survival is a personal responsibility.

The saying is often associated with a pragmatic and perhaps somewhat cynical worldview. It can be used to justify inaction in the face of suffering or injustice, rationalizing that individuals are ultimately responsible for their own circumstances. While not explicitly advocating for causing harm, it discourages actively preventing it, placing the onus entirely on the individual facing adversity. The phrase can be interpreted in different ways, ranging from a call for personal autonomy to a justification for apathy.