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It's funny, I wonder why we like being praised. There's no…

“It's funny, I wonder why we like being praised. There's no money in it. Fame? How famous could we get? . . . Aren't humans absurd? I suppose we like praise for its own sake. The way children like ice cream. It's an inferiority complex, that's what it is. Praise assuages our insecurities. And…” quote by Arkady and Boris Strugatsky
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““It's funny, I wonder why we like being praised. There's no money in it. Fame? How famous could we get? . . . Aren't humans absurd? I suppose we like praise for its own sake. The way children like ice cream. It's an inferiority complex, that's what it is. Praise assuages our insecurities. And ridiculously so.””

Arkady and Boris Strugatsky

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People crave praise for its own sake, driven by deep insecurities, similar to children’s love of treats.

In simple terms: Praise satisfies hidden insecurities.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address the need for validation.

Themes

praise insecurity human nature validation absurdity

Mood

reflective critical observational

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • work performance reviews
  • social media likes
  • creative feedback
  • parental encouragement
  • team motivation

Key Concepts

psychology selfesteem social behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we seek approval?
  • What are healthier ways to build self‑worth?
A Different Perspective

Excessive praise can foster dependency and reduce intrinsic motivation.

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