I suspect gentlemen, that you're regarding me with pity…
““I suspect gentlemen, that you're regarding me with pity; you keep repeating to me that an enlightened and cultured man -- such as, in short, as the man of the future will be -- cannot knowingly desire anything unprofitable for himself -- that that's mathematics. I agree totally that it really is mathematics. But I repeat to you for the hundredth time: there is only one case, only one, when a man can intentionally and consciously desire for himself even what is harmful and stupid, even what is extremely stupid: namely, in order to have the right to desire for himself even what is extremely stupid and not be constrained by the obligation to desire for himself only what is intelligent.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker argues that a truly free individual must be allowed to choose even harmful or irrational desires, otherwise freedom is limited to only rational choices.
In simple terms: Freedom includes the right to choose harmful desires.
Key Takeaway
Allow yourself true freedom, even if it means irrational choices.
Themes
freedom
choice
human nature
irrationality
Mood
conflicted
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
dialogue
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical debates
- psychological self‑analysis
- creative risk taking
Key Concepts
existentialism
autonomy
moral philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you choose if you could act without rational constraints?
- Is true freedom worth the risk of irrational harm?
A Different Perspective
Freedom without limits can lead to self‑destruction and societal harm.