Absolutes Quote by Fyodor Dostoevsky
“Sometimes we desire absolute nonsense because in our stupidity we see in this nonsense the easiest way of attaining some conjectural good.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky, 1869
People sometimes embrace absurdity because it seems the simplest path to a hoped‑for benefit, despite its irrationality.
In simple terms: We seek easy answers in nonsense.
Key Takeaway
Question the usefulness of nonsense.
Themes
irrationality
hope
human nature
Mood
conflicted
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- creative brainstorming
- problem solving
- artistic inspiration
- coping with uncertainty
Key Concepts
existentialism
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- When does absurdity become harmful?
- How can we find value in irrational ideas?
A Different Perspective
Nonsense can mislead or distract from real solutions.
![“It's [Los Angeles] mostly full of nonsense and delusion and egomania. They think they'll be young and beautiful forever, even though most of them aren't even young and beautiful now.” quote by Christopher Hitchens](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a86/christopher-hitchens-117_beautiful_it-s-los-angeles-mostly-full-of-nonsense_10462.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
