Men Quote by Giacomo Leopardi
“Man is almost always as wicked as his needs require.”
About This Quote
Human wickedness often matches the intensity of one's needs.
In simple terms: Desires can drive immoral actions.
Key Takeaway
Control desires.
Themes
morality
human nature
need vs. desire
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- consumer behavior
- political policy
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Ethical philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What needs drive your questionable actions?
- Can desire be channeled positively?
A Different Perspective
Suppressing needs may cause other issues.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)