--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Aristotle thought that humans are…" description: "\"Aristotle thought that humans are rational animals and Hobbes thought that we act on the basis of rational self-interest. If only! It's not that we nev..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/acd/dale-jamieson-4075_animal_aristotle-thought-that-humans-are-ration_509918.jpg" --- # Aristotle thought that humans are rational animals and… ![“Aristotle thought that humans are rational animals and Hobbes thought that we act on the basis of rational self-interest. If only! It's not that we never do these things, it's that they are hardly constituative of who and what we are.” quote by Dale Jamieson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/acd/dale-jamieson-4075_animal_aristotle-thought-that-humans-are-ration_509918.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/acd/dale-jamieson-4075_animal_aristotle-thought-that-humans-are-ration_509918.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/acd/dale-jamieson-4075_animal_aristotle-thought-that-humans-are-ration_509918.jpg) > “Aristotle thought that humans are rational animals and Hobbes thought that we act on the basis of rational self-interest. If only! It's not that we never do these things, it's that they are hardly constituative of who and what we are.” [Dale Jamieson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/dale-jamieson/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Humans are not defined solely by rationality or self‑interest; those traits are only marginal aspects of our identity. **In simple terms:** We are more than rational or self‑interested beings. Key Takeaway Recognize the broader dimensions of humanity. Themes identity human nature philosophy ethics Mood thoughtful analytical Type philosophical reflective When to use this quote - personal relationships - public policy - education - leadership Key Concepts rationality self‑interest constitutive traits Questions to Reflect On - How do emotions shape your decisions? - What aspects of identity go beyond rationality? 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