Ability Quote by David Hume
“Let us consider what we call vicious luxury. No gratification, however sensual, can of itself be esteemed vicious. A gratification is only vicious when it engrosses all a man's expense, and leaves no ability for such acts of duty and generosity as are required by his situation and fortune. The same care and toil that raise a dish of peas at Christmas would give bread to a whole family during six months.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
Luxury becomes vicious only when it consumes all resources, preventing duty and generosity.
In simple terms: Luxury is bad when it crowds out duty.
Key Takeaway
Balance pleasure with responsibility.
Themes
ethics
economics
moderation
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- personal budgeting
- charitable giving
- career planning
Key Concepts
virtue ethics
resource allocation
Questions to Reflect On
- What pleasures enrich your life without harming obligations?
- How can you allocate resources to both joy and duty?
A Different Perspective
Excessive restraint may stifle legitimate enjoyment.
