Envy Quote by Honore de Balzac
“There are as many mediocrities exalted through pity as masters decried through envy.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Le Père Goriot, 1835
Society often elevates the mediocre out of sympathy while condemning the truly great out of jealousy.
In simple terms: People lift the average with pity, despise the excellent with envy.
Key Takeaway
Beware of bias when judging others.
Themes
society
judgment
status
envy
pity
Mood
reflective
critical
analytical
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace evaluations
- academic grading
- media coverage
- political discourse
Key Concepts
social dynamics
psychology
status hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you judge people by their achievements or their circumstances?
- How does envy shape public opinion?
A Different Perspective
Not all praise is merit based; envy can obscure true talent.
