Skip to content

The pest of society are the egotist, they are dull and…

“The pest of society are the egotist, they are dull and bright, sacred and profane, course and fine. It is a disease that like the flu falls on all constitutions.” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
Download Open image
“The pest of society are the egotist, they are dull and bright, sacred and profane, course and fine. It is a disease that like the flu falls on all constitutions.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

Egotism spreads through society like a contagious disease, affecting all people regardless of status.

In simple terms: Selfishness harms everyone.

Key Takeaway

Beware and curb ego.

Themes

ego society disease

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • workplace dynamics
  • family relationships
  • community activism

Key Concepts

human nature psychology social contagion

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does ego manifest in your community?
  • Can selfishness ever be productive?
A Different Perspective

Ego can also drive innovation, so not all self‑interest is harmful.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Explore all 4,802 Ralph Waldo Emerson quotes

More Constitution quotes

Browse all 4,507 Constitution quotes