This food-and-shelter theory concerning man's efforts is without insight. Our most persistent and spectacular efforts are concerned not with the preservation of what we are but with the building up of an imaginary conception of ourselves in the opinion of others. The desire for praise is more imperative than the desire for food and shelter.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Human efforts focus more on building an imaginary self-image in others' opinions than on basic needs like food and shelter.
- In plain terms
- People work harder to impress others and build their reputation than to survive with food and shelter.
- What can you take from it?
- Seeking praise often drives human effort more than basic survival needs.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What truly drives human effort?
- Is praise more important than survival?
Another view
Basic survival needs often drive effort more than social praise in many contexts.
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