Dreams Quote by Alexander Solschenizyn
““It has been known for centuries that Hunger . . . rules the world! (And all your Progressiv Doctrine is, incindentally, built on Hunger, on the thesis that hungry people will inevitable revolt against the well-fed.) Hunger rules every human being, unless he has himself consciously decided to die. Hunger, which forces an honest person to reach out and steal ("When the belly rumbles, conscience flees"). Hunger, which compels the most unselfish person to look with envy into someone else's bowl, and to try painfully to estimate what weight of ration his neighbor is receiving. Hunger, which darkens the brain and refuses to allow it to be distracted by anything else at all, or to think about anything else at all, or to speak about anything else at all except food, food, and food. Hunger, from which it is impossible to escape even in dreams -- dreams are about food, and insomnia is over food.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gulag Archipelago, 1973
Hunger drives human behavior, overriding morals and focusing thoughts solely on survival needs.
In simple terms: Hunger dominates thoughts and actions.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how basic needs can override ethics.
Themes
survival
human nature
morality
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- poverty relief
- food security policy
- psychological studies
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
physiological drive
social inequality
Questions to Reflect On
- What other factors influence ethical choices?
- How can societies address hunger to prevent moral compromise?
A Different Perspective
May oversimplify complex motivations beyond hunger.
