I had no power of withdrawing my person from a disgustful…
““I had no power of withdrawing my person from a disgustful society, in the most cheerful and valuable part of the day; but I soon brought to perfection the art of withdrawing my thoughts, and saw and heard the people about me, for just as short a time, and as seldom, as I pleased. Such is man in himself considered; so simple his nature; so few his wants. How different from the man of artificial society! Palaces are built for his reception, a thousand vehicles provided for his exercise, provinces are ransacked for the gratification of his appetite, and the whole world traversed to supply him with apparel and furniture. Thus vast is his expenditure, and the purchase slavery.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People withdraw mentally from a corrupt society, living with minimal wants while material excess fuels slavery.
In simple terms: Mental withdrawal reveals simple human needs.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on personal wants versus societal demands.
Themes
society
materialism
freedom
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- urban living
- consumer culture
- political activism
Key Concepts
philosophical critique
minimalism
social alienation
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true freedom look like for you?
- How can you engage without being consumed?
A Different Perspective
Withdrawal can become passive acceptance rather than change.