That moderation which nature prescribes, which limits our…
“That moderation which nature prescribes, which limits our desires by resources restricted to our needs, has abandoned the field; it has now come to this -- that to want only what is enough is a sign both of boorishness and of utter destitution.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Natural moderation limits desires to what is needed; rejecting this leads to either excessive greed or extreme poverty.
In simple terms: Balance desires with needs, avoid excess and deprivation.
Key Takeaway
Practice moderation in consumption.
Themes
moderation
desire
balance
Mood
contemplative
cautionary
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- budgeting
- diet
- resource management
- environmental sustainability
Key Concepts
stoicism
ethics
economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How much is enough for you?
- What risks come from over‑moderation?
A Different Perspective
Too strict moderation can suppress ambition.