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Good resolutions are useless attempts to interfere with…

“Good resolutions are useless attempts to interfere with scientific laws. Their origin is pure vanity. Their result is absolutely nil. They give us, now and then, some of those luxurious sterile emotions that have a certain charm for the weak… They are simply cheques that men draw on a bank where…” quote by Oscar Wilde
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“Good resolutions are useless attempts to interfere with scientific laws. Their origin is pure vanity. Their result is absolutely nil. They give us, now and then, some of those luxurious sterile emotions that have a certain charm for the weak… They are simply cheques that men draw on a bank where they have no account.”

Oscar Wilde

About This Quote

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

Attempts to control nature defy immutable laws, leading to futile vanity.

In simple terms: Fighting nature is futile.

Key Takeaway

Accept natural limits.

Themes

vanity science human hubris

Mood

cynical thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • environmental planning
  • personal ambition
  • health decisions

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are the limits of human control?
  • When is restraint wiser?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on control can stifle innovation.

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