As to the essence of human nature, what our national experience has made plain is this, that to remain in a continually exalted moral condition is not human nature. That has happened which was prophesied: we have gone down hill from the Revolution until now; we are absorbed in 'mere money-getting.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Human nature is not capable of staying in a continually exalted moral condition, leading to a decline from revolutionary ideals to money-getting.
- In plain terms
- People tend to move from moral ideals to focusing on making money.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize that sustained moral excellence is not natural for most.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can society maintain moral standards?
- Why do people prioritize money?
Another view
This view may be overly pessimistic about human potential for moral growth.
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