Desire Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“Men never desire anything very eagerly which they desire only by the dictates of reason.”
About This Quote
Source Maxim: The Art of Worldly Wisdom, 1667
People only desire things when reason commands it, not from eager passion.
In simple terms: Desire is guided by rational thought, not eager longing.
Key Takeaway
Recognize rational motives behind desires.
Themes
philosophy
human nature
reason
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
maxim
When to use this quote
- decision making
- goal setting
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
rationalism
desire
self‑knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever feel desire without rational justification?
- How does reason shape your wants?
A Different Perspective
Passion can also drive meaningful pursuits.
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
