I have heard that, with some persons, temperance – that…
““I have heard that, with some persons, temperance – that is, moderation – is almost impossible; and if abstinence be an evil (which some have doubted), no one will deny that excess is a greater. Some parents have entirely prohibited their children from tasting intoxicating liquors; but a parent’s authority cannot last for ever; children are naturally prone to hanker after forbidden things; and a child, in such a case, would be likely to have a strong curiosity to taste, and try the effect of what has been so lauded and enjoyed by others, so strictly forbidden to himself – which curiosity would generally be gratified on the first convenient opportunity; and the restraint once broken, serious consequences might ensue.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Moderation is hard; prohibition fuels curiosity, leading to eventual excess and serious fallout.
In simple terms: Too much restriction breeds rebellion.
Key Takeaway
Balance guidance with personal responsibility.
Themes
temperance
curiosity
parenting
addiction
consequences
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
cautious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- parental guidance
- education
- substance policy
- personal decision‑making
Key Concepts
psychology of desire
self‑control
risk behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- What is the best way to teach moderation?
- How can societies reduce harmful curiosity?
A Different Perspective
Strict bans often backfire, creating stronger urges.