Human nature Quote by Honore de Balzac
“Ideas devour the ages as men are devoured by their passions. When man is cured, human nature will cure itself perhaps.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Le Père Goriot, Honoré de Balzac, 1835
Passions dominate humanity, consuming people as time consumes ideas; when humanity heals, nature may self‑correct.
In simple terms: Passions devour people; time devours ideas; healing may follow.
Key Takeaway
Beware unchecked passions; seek personal healing.
Themes
philosophy
human nature
time
passion
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- societal change
- mental health
- historical cycles
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
self‑regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- Can passion be channeled constructively?
- What heals a society?
A Different Perspective
Passions can also inspire positive change.
