Absence Quote by Bertrand Russell
![“The human animal, like others, is adapted to a certain amount of struggle for life [and] the mere absence of effort from his life removes an essential ingredient of happiness. [. . .] He forgets that to be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/218/bertrand-russell-69_absence_the-human-animal-like-others-is-adapted_281043.jpg)
“The human animal, like others, is adapted to a certain amount of struggle for life [and] the mere absence of effort from his life removes an essential ingredient of happiness. [. . .] He forgets that to be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Conquest of Happiness", 1930
Struggle is essential to happiness; lacking desire and effort removes meaning.
In simple terms: Happiness needs effort and desire.
Key Takeaway
Accept struggle as part of joy.
Themes
philosophy
psychology
human nature
meaning
Mood
analytical
contemplative
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- career challenges
- personal goals
- creative projects
- relationship building
Key Concepts
existentialism
hedonism
motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How much struggle is healthy?
- What role does desire play in happiness?
A Different Perspective
Too much struggle can cause suffering; balance is key.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
