Depravity Quote by Francois Fenelon
“Mankind, by the perverse depravity of their nature, esteem that which they have most desired as of no value the moment it is possessed, and torment themselves with fruitless wishes for that which is beyond their reach.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Les Maximes by Francois Fenelon, 1685
People often devalue what they obtain and endlessly crave what they cannot have, leading to perpetual dissatisfaction.
In simple terms: We undervalue gains and chase unattainable desires, causing misery.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and appreciate what you have.
Themes
desire
valuation
dissatisfaction
human nature
contentment
Mood
reflective
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
advice
literary
When to use this quote
- relationships
- career advancement
- financial goals
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
selfcontrol
Questions to Reflect On
- What do you truly value versus what you merely desire?
- How can you balance ambition with gratitude?
A Different Perspective
The desire for the unattainable can motivate progress, but may also cause chronic frustration.
![“[Perverse] unreason has its own logical processes” quote by Joseph Conrad](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/190/joseph-conrad-336_perverse_perverse-unreason-has-its-own-logical-pr_311133.jpg)
![“All these institutions [prisons] seemed purposely invented for the production of depravity and vice, condensed to such a degree that no other conditions could produce it, and for the spreading of this condensed depravity and vice broadcast among the whole population.” quote by Leo Tolstoy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f71/leo-tolstoy-55_depravity_all-these-institutions-prisons-seemed-pu_254289.jpg)
