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Clearly,” I said, “we should choose not to have good…

“Clearly,” I said, “we should choose not to have good sense, if that good sense contributes to our misery.” Everyone agreed with me, and yet I found no one who wanted to accept the bargain of becoming ignorant in order to become content. From this I concluded that though we greatly value happiness…” quote by Voltaire
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““Clearly,” I said, “we should choose not to have good sense, if that good sense contributes to our misery.” Everyone agreed with me, and yet I found no one who wanted to accept the bargain of becoming ignorant in order to become content. From this I concluded that though we greatly value happiness, we place even greater value on reason. But yet, upon reflection, it seems that to prefer reason to happiness is to be quite insane.””

Voltaire

About This Quote

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

People value reason over happiness, but preferring reason can be irrational.

In simple terms: Reason vs happiness conflict.

Key Takeaway

Balance reason with joy.

Themes

reason happiness irrationality

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • ethical dilemmas
  • mental health
  • career planning

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you find happiness without sacrificing reason?
  • When does reason become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Pure reason may ignore emotional needs.

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