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Life Quote by Frederick the Great

“If the men were without passions, it would be forgivable to see Machiavel try to give some to them; he would be the new [[Prometheus]] bringing celestial fire to breathe life into robots. But no man is without passions. When they are moderated, they are the heart of the enterprise; but when the…” quote by Frederick the Great
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““If the men were without passions, it would be forgivable to see Machiavel try to give some to them; he would be the new [[Prometheus]] bringing celestial fire to breathe life into robots. But no man is without passions. When they are moderated, they are the heart of the enterprise; but when the brake is stripped of them, they are its destruction.””

Frederick the Great

About This Quote

Source Letter: Philosophical musings, 1765, Prussia

He contends passions are essential; without them, humanity is robotic, but excess leads to ruin.

In simple terms: Passions vital, but need balance.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate moderated passions.

Themes

philosophy human nature balance

Mood

reflective strategic

Type

philosophical psychological

When to use this quote

  • leadership training
  • personal development
  • team management

Key Concepts

ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you regulate passion?
  • What risks arise from suppression?
A Different Perspective

Balancing passion is complex.

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