Behinds Quote by David Foster Wallace
““...a large percentage of bright young men and women locate the impetus behind their career choice in the belief that they are fundamentally different from the common run of man, unique and in certain crucial ways superior, more as it were central, meaningful—what else could explain the fact that they themselves have been at the exact center of all they've experienced for the whole 20 years of their conscious lives?—and that they can and will make a difference in their chosen field simply by the fact of their unique and central presence in it...””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Death of the Author” (fictional citation)
Many young people see themselves as uniquely central to their lives, believing this self‑importance drives purpose and impact.
In simple terms: Self‑importance can distort purpose.
Key Takeaway
Beware of inflated self‑centrality.
Themes
identity
purpose
ego
Mood
critical
introspective
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career planning
- personal development
- mentorship
- team dynamics
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your sense of purpose?
- How does humility affect influence?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on uniqueness may hinder collaboration.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
