Ambitious Quote by David Hume
“Enthusiasm, being the infirmity of bold and ambitious tempers, is naturally accompanied with a spirit of liberty; as superstition,on the contrary, renders men tame and abject, and fits them for slavery.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
Enthusiasm fuels boldness and liberty, while superstition makes people timid and prone to slavery.
In simple terms: Enthusiasm promotes freedom; superstition leads to oppression.
Key Takeaway
Encourage enthusiasm, reject superstition.
Themes
freedom
creativity
politics
Mood
thought‑provoking
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political activism
- education reform
- personal growth
- community organizing
- artistic expression
Key Concepts
liberalism
psychology
social control
Questions to Reflect On
- When does enthusiasm become dangerous?
- How can societies balance enthusiasm and caution?
A Different Perspective
Excessive enthusiasm can become reckless; superstition can be rationalized.
