Appearance Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
“We find nothing easier than being wise, patient, superior. We drip with the oil of forbearance and sympathy, we are absurdly just, we forgive everything. For that very reason we ought to discipline ourselves a little; for that very reason we ought to cultivate a little emotion, a little emotional vice, from time to time. It may be hard for us; and among ourselves we may perhaps laugh at the appearance we thus present. But what of that! We no longer have any other mode of self-overcoming available to us: this is our asceticism, our penance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Beyond Good and Evil, Friedrich Nietzsche, 1886
Human beings, in their pursuit of moral superiority, become overly disciplined and suppress natural emotions, leading to a rigid, self‑punishing ethic.
In simple terms: Excessive self‑discipline stifles feeling and creates a false sense of moral superiority.
Key Takeaway
Balance discipline with genuine emotion.
Themes
morality
self‑discipline
asceticism
emotion
humility
Mood
reflective
critical
philosophical
Type
aphilosophical
critical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal development
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- mental health
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Nietzschean critique
self‑overcoming
ethical paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one cultivate humility without suppressing emotion?
- What risks arise from treating self‑discipline as a moral virtue?
A Different Perspective
Over‑discipline can cause emotional numbness and social alienation.
