Man must be disciplined, for he is by nature raw and wild.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Kant argues that humans are not born morally developed but require training and structure to become ethical beings.
- In plain terms
- People need guidance and rules because they start out unrefined.
- What can you take from it?
- Discipline is essential for moral development.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What role does discipline play in your life?
- Is human nature fixed or malleable?
Another view
Some argue humans have innate goodness rather than being inherently wild.
More from Immanuel Kant
It is not necessary that whilst I live I live happily; but it is necessary that so long as I live I should live honourably.
Permalink to quote #57 Metaphysics is a dark ocean without shores or lighthouse, strewn with many a philosophic wreck.
Permalink to quote #59 It is not God's will merely that we should be happy, but that we should make ourselves happy.
Permalink to quote #56
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