People Are People Lyrics

“People Are People” explores the frustrating and inexplicable nature of human animosity with a bleak, detached perspective characteristic of Depeche Mode. The core theme is the baffling act of hatred directed at someone unknown, highlighting the disconnect between individuals and the seemingly random violence that can erupt. The lyrics express bewilderment and helplessness – “I can’t understand / What makes a man / Hate another” – as the narrator observes aggressive behavior with no apparent provocation or personal connection. There's an underlying sense of disappointment regarding human decency, suggesting it’s a distant, elusive concept that manifests only through destructive actions. The repetition emphasizes this frustration and creates a feeling of helplessness against the irrationality of violence, ultimately portraying humanity as fundamentally flawed and prone to inexplicable conflict.