Animal Quote by Georges Bataille
“Eroticism differs from animal sexuality in that human sexuality is limited by taboos and the domain of eroticism is that of the transgression of these taboos. Desire in eroticism is the desire that triumphs over the taboo. It presupposes man in conflict with himself.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Eroticism by Georges Bataille, 1957
Human erotic desire is shaped by cultural taboos, making it a struggle against self‑imposed limits.
In simple terms: Erotic desire challenges forbidden norms.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question personal taboos.
Themes
desire
taboos
conflict
self
transgression
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- artistic expression
- sexual identity
- psychological introspection
Key Concepts
psychoanalysis
philosophy
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your own taboos shape your desires?
- Can transgression lead to personal growth?
A Different Perspective
Taboos can also protect social cohesion, limiting free expression.
![“[F]or academic men to be happy, the universe would have to take shape. All of philosophy has no other goal: it is a matter of giving a frock coat to what is, a mathematical frock coat. On the other hand, affirming that the universe resembles nothing and is only formless amounts to saying that the…” quote by Georges Bataille](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d5d/georges-bataille-3741_academic_f-or-academic-men-to-be-happy-the-univer_156790.jpg)
![“[Zarathustra] never abandoned the watchword of not having any end, not serving a cause, because, as he knew, causes pluck off the wings we fly with.” quote by Georges Bataille](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7df/georges-bataille-3741_abandoned_zarathustra-never-abandoned-the-watchwor_257983.jpg)
