All desirable things... are desirable either for the…
“All desirable things... are desirable either for the pleasure inherent in themselves, or as a means to the promotion of pleasure and the prevention of pain.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People value things either for their own enjoyment or for the benefits they bring, including avoiding suffering.
In simple terms: Things are valued for pleasure or to avoid pain.
Key Takeaway
Seek pleasure, avoid pain.
Themes
ethics
pleasure
pain
values
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- policy making
- consumer choices
- healthcare
- education
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
consequentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What pleasures are truly beneficial?
- How do you balance pleasure and pain?
A Different Perspective
Not all pleasures are equally beneficial; some may cause harm.