Active Quote by David Hume
“Look round this universe. What an immense profusion of beings, animated and organized, sensible and active! You admire this prodigious variety and fecundity. But inspect a little more narrowly these living existences, the only beings worth regarding. How hostile and destructive to each other! How insufficient all of them for their own happiness! How contemptible or odious to the spectator! The whole presents nothing but the idea of a blind Nature, inpregnated by a great vivifying principle, and pouring forth from her lap, without discernment or parental care, her maimed and abortive children.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
Human existence appears abundant yet conflicted, revealing nature's indifferent creation of flawed beings.
In simple terms: Life is full of diverse, struggling beings.
Key Takeaway
Recognize nature's indifference and seek personal meaning.
Themes
philosophy
human nature
existentialism
Mood
melancholic
contemplative
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- ethical debates
- literary analysis
- philosophical discussions
Key Concepts
moral relativism
nihilism
cosmic indifference
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this perspective imply about moral responsibility?
- Can we find purpose despite nature's indifference?
A Different Perspective
The view may overlook cooperative aspects of life.
