To attempt the destruction of our passions is the height of folly. What a noble aim is that of the zealot who tortures himself like a madman in order to desire nothing, love nothing, feel nothing, and who, if he succeeded, would end up a complete monster!
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Suppressing all human passions is foolish and leads to a monster-like state rather than a noble aim.
- In plain terms
- Trying to feel nothing makes you a monster.
- What can you take from it?
- Passions are natural and should not be destroyed.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Should we control emotions?
- What is the limit of self-denial?
Another view
Some control over passions is necessary for social order.
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