One should never direct people towards happiness, because happiness too is an idol of the market-place. One should direct them towards mutual affection. A beast gnawing at its prey can be happy too, but only human beings can feel affection for each other, and this is the highest achievement they can aspire to.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- He argues directing people to happiness is misplaced since even beasts feel it; mutual affection is the highest human goal.
- In plain terms
- Don't aim for happiness; aim for mutual affection, which beasts cannot feel.
- What can you take from it?
- Mutual affection is a higher goal than the pursuit of happiness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is a good life?
- Is happiness a worthy goal?
Another view
It dismisses happiness as an idol rather than a valid pursuit.
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