The immediate occasion of this practice was the lowness of…
““The immediate occasion of this practice was the lowness of wages, which at that time would not allow them to indulge in ale or spirits, and wages rising, it may be thought that this practice would cease; but as I do not readily believe that any man having once tasted the divine luxuries of opium will afterwards descend to the gross and mortal enjoyments of alcohol, I take it for granted, That those eat now who never ate before; And those who always ate, now eat the more.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote links opium use to a loss of desire for ordinary pleasures, suggesting addiction reshapes preferences toward stronger experiences.
In simple terms: Opium changes taste for ordinary pleasures.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how addiction can alter desires.
Themes
addiction
desire
substance
behavior
psychology
Mood
reflective
concerned
Type
statement
observation
When to use this quote
- personal health
- policy making
- rehabilitation programs
Key Concepts
neurochemistry
habit formation
social impact
Questions to Reflect On
- How does addiction reshape values?
- Can recovery restore former pleasures?
A Different Perspective
Addiction may not be solely chemical; social factors matter.