Ambition Quote by David Hume
“Methinks I am like a man, who having struck on many shoals, and having narrowly escap'd shipwreck in passing a small frith, has yet the temerity to put out to sea in the same leaky weather-beaten vessel, and even carries his ambition so far as to think of compassing the globe under these disadvantageous circumstances.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
The speaker warns against reckless ambition despite repeated near‑failures, urging caution in adverse conditions.
In simple terms: Don't repeat risky actions after near‑disasters.
Key Takeaway
Avoid overconfidence in bad conditions.
Themes
caution
ambition
risk management
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business ventures
- personal projects
- travel planning
- investment decisions
Key Concepts
Human nature
overconfidence
decision making
Questions to Reflect On
- What patterns of repeated failure do you notice?
- How can you assess risk more realistically?
A Different Perspective
Even cautious people may still be tempted to ignore warning signs.
