It is a foible of our human nature that when we have an…
““It is a foible of our human nature that when we have an extremely unpleasant experience, it gives us a peculiar satisfaction if it is “the biggest” of its disagreeable kind that has happened since the world began. During a heat wave, for instance, we are very pleased if the papers announce that it is “the highest temperature reached since the year 1881,” and we feel a little resentment towards the year 1881 for having gone us one better. Or if our ears are frozen till all the skin peels off, it fills us with a certain happiness to learn that “it was the hardest frost recorded since 1786.” It is just the same with wars. The war in progress is either the most righteous or the bloodiest, or the most successful, or the longest, since such and such a time; any superlative whatever always affords us the proud satisfaction of having been through something extraordinary and record-breaking.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People find comfort in being part of the most extreme event, comparing it to past records to feel significance.
In simple terms: We like to think we experience the biggest or worst things.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the bias of superlatives in judging events.
Themes
psychology
human nature
comparison
extremes
pride
Mood
reflective
critical
analytical
Type
observation
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- news consumption
- personal hardships
- war reporting
- climate discussions
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social comparison theory
record‑keeping
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you measure your experiences against historical extremes?
- How does this bias affect your perception of current events?
A Different Perspective
It can downplay ongoing issues by focusing on extremes rather than systemic problems.