Skip to content

Greatness Quote by David Hume

“Men are much oftener thrown on their knees by the melancholy than by the agreeable passions.” quote by David Hume
Download Open image
“Men are much oftener thrown on their knees by the melancholy than by the agreeable passions.”

David Hume

About This Quote

Source Essay: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748

Melancholy more often forces people into humility than pleasant emotions do.

In simple terms: Sadness compels humility more than joy.

Key Takeaway

Recognize melancholy’s role in self‑awareness.

Themes

emotion humility psychology

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • therapy sessions
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

mood influence self‑reflection philosophy of mind

Questions to Reflect On

  • When has sadness humbled you?
  • Can joy ever produce true humility?
A Different Perspective

Joy can also humble; context matters.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by David Hume

Explore all 487 David Hume quotes

More Greatness quotes

Browse all 7,631 Greatness quotes