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I could be content that we might procreate like trees, without conjunction, or that there were any way to perpetuate the world without this trivial and vulgar act of coition; It is the foolishest act a wise man commits in all his life, nor is there anything that will more deject his cooled imagination, when he shall consider what an odd and unworthy piece of folly he hath committed.

Sir Thomas Browne#23

NaturePhilosophyRegretSexSexuality

About this quote

What does it mean?
The author expresses regret over sexual reproduction, calling it foolish and dejecting compared to asexual means of perpetuating life.
In plain terms
I wish humans could reproduce like trees without sex because sex is a foolish act that lowers the spirit.
What can you take from it?
Questioning natural acts through philosophical reflection.

Where it applies

  • philosophical writing
  • personal reflection

Putting it to work

  • reconsider views on procreation

Questions to consider

  • Is reproduction a burden or a gift?
  • How do we view natural acts?

Another view

This perspective ignores the natural and relational aspects of sex.

More from Sir Thomas Browne

  1. But how shall we expect charity towards others, when we are uncharitable to ourselves? Charity begins at home, is the voice of the world, yet is every man his …

    Permalink to quote #22
  2. I can look a whole day with delight upon a handsome picture, though it be but of a horse. It is my temper, & I like it the better, to affect all harmony, and s…

    Permalink to quote #24
  3. No man can justly censure or condemn another, because indeed no man truly knows another.

    Permalink to quote #21

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