Skip to content

The faculty for myth is innate in the human race. It…

“The faculty for myth is innate in the human race. It seizes with avidity upon any incidents, surprising or mysterious, in the career of those who have at all distinguished themselves from their fellows, and invents a legend to which it then attaches a fanatical belief.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
Download Open image
““The faculty for myth is innate in the human race. It seizes with avidity upon any incidents, surprising or mysterious, in the career of those who have at all distinguished themselves from their fellows, and invents a legend to which it then attaches a fanatical belief.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

Humans instinctively create myths, turning events into legendary narratives with fervent belief.

In simple terms: People turn stories into myths.

Key Takeaway

Recognize myth-making in perception.

Themes

myth storytelling human nature

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • media consumption
  • education
  • political rhetoric

Key Concepts

cognitive bias culture identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we cling to legends?
  • How do myths shape societies?
A Different Perspective

Myths can distort truth.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W. Somerset Maugham

Explore all 840 W. Somerset Maugham quotes

More Human race quotes

Browse all 2,205 Human race quotes