Effort Quote by Herbert Marcuse
“The judgment that human life is worth living, or rather can and ought to be made worth living, ... underlies all intellectual effort; it is the a priori of social theory, and its rejection (which is perfectly logical) rejects theory itself.”
About This Quote
Source Book: One-Dimensional Man, 1964
Life’s value is a prerequisite for any intellectual work; denying it undermines theory itself.
In simple terms: Life’s worth underpins thought.
Key Takeaway
Recognize life’s intrinsic value.
Themes
philosophy
existentialism
social theory
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
philosophical
theoretical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- personal decision‑making
Key Concepts
ontology
ethics
critical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does valuing life affect your work?
- Can theory exist without assuming life’s worth?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on abstract value may ignore practical needs.
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