Skip to content

Nothing is more human than for man to desire naturally…

“Nothing is more human than for man to desire naturally things impossible to his nature. It is, indeed, the property of a nature which is not closed up in matter like the nature of physical things, but which is intellectual or infinitized by the spirit. It is the property of a metaphysical nature…” quote by Jacques Maritain
Download Open image
“Nothing is more human than for man to desire naturally things impossible to his nature. It is, indeed, the property of a nature which is not closed up in matter like the nature of physical things, but which is intellectual or infinitized by the spirit. It is the property of a metaphysical nature. Such desires reach for the infinite, because the intellect thirsts for being and being is infinite.”

Jacques Maritain

About This Quote

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

Human desire for the impossible stems from an infinite intellectual nature seeking being.

In simple terms: Humans crave the infinite.

Key Takeaway

Pursue higher aspirations.

Themes

desire infinity spirit

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • artistic creation
  • scientific research
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

metaphysical nature intellectual thirst

Questions to Reflect On

  • What infinite goals drive you?
  • How does yearning shape purpose?
A Different Perspective

Desire may lead to frustration.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jacques Maritain

Explore all 76 Jacques Maritain quotes

More Desire quotes

Browse all 15,155 Desire quotes