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About this quote

What does it mean?
Value is not inherent in things; it is assigned by humans, as nature itself is value‑less.
In plain terms
We give things value, not the other way around.
What can you take from it?
Recognize that worth is a human construct.

Where it applies

  • economics
  • environmental ethics

Putting it to work

  • re‑evaluate perceived worth
  • consider intrinsic vs. assigned value

Questions to consider

  • What values do you accept without question?
  • How does recognizing constructed value change your behavior?

Another view

Some values feel almost universal, making them seem inherent.

More from Friedrich Nietzsche

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