Most of the luxuries and many of the so-called comforts of life are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Many luxuries and comforts are unnecessary and actually hinder human advancement.
- In plain terms
- Luxuries often hinder human progress.
- What can you take from it?
- Simplify to remove obstacles to growth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When do comforts become beneficial?
- How can we balance simplicity with well‑being?
Another view
Some comforts can enable productivity and health.
More from Henry David Thoreau
She with one breath attunes the spheres, And also my poor human heart.
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Permalink to quote #171 I hear beyond the range of sound, I see beyond the range of sight, New earths and skies and seas around, And in my day the sun doth pale his light.
Permalink to quote #168
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