Man is naturally more disposed to beneficent than selfish actions. This we learn even from the history of savages. The domestic virtues have something in them so inviting and genial, and the public virtues of the citizen something so grand and inspiring, that even he who is barely uncorrupted, is seldom able to resist their charm.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Humans are naturally inclined toward kind actions because domestic and public virtues are inherently appealing.
- In plain terms
- People naturally want to be good because kindness and public service feel rewarding.
- What can you take from it?
- Trust human nature to lean toward virtue.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Are people naturally good or selfish?
- What makes virtue appealing?
Another view
Selfish impulses often override natural benevolence.
More from Wilhelm von Humboldt
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