Enlightenment Quote by Baron d'Holbach
““When it shall be desired to enlighten man, let him always have truth laid before him. Instead of kindling his imagination by the idea of those pretended goods that a future state has in reserve for him, let him be solaced, let him be succoured; or, at least, let him be permitted to enjoy the fruit of his labour; let not his substance be ravaged from him by cruel imposts; let him not be discouraged from work, by finding all his labour inadequate to support his existence, let him not be driven into that idleness that will surely lead him on to crime: let him consider his present existence, without carrying his views to that which may attend him after his death: let his industry be excited; let his talents be rewarded; let him be rendered active, laborious, beneficent, and virtuous, in the world he inhabits; let it be shown to him that his actions are capable of having an influence over his fellow men, but not on those imaginary beings located in an ideal world.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: Treatise on the Moral Sense, 1755
Truth and tangible reward should guide human effort, not false promises of future rewards, to prevent idleness and crime.
In simple terms: Give people real benefits now, not empty future promises.
Key Takeaway
Reward present work, avoid false hopes.
Themes
work
truth
motivation
justice
productivity
Mood
reflective
serious
hopeful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- employment policy
- education reform
- social welfare
- criminal justice reform
- personal development
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance immediate incentives with long‑term goals?
- What are the risks of over‑promising future benefits?
A Different Perspective
If immediate rewards are insufficient, people may still become discouraged.