Character Quote by Honore de Balzac
“What moralists describe as the mysteries of the human heart are solely the deceiving thoughts, the spontaneous impulses of self-regard. The sudden changes in character, about which so much has been said, are instinctive calculations for the furtherance of our own pleasures. Seeing himself now in his fine clothes, his new gloves and shoes, Eugène de Rastignac forgot his noble resolve. Youth, when it swerves toward wrong, dares not look in the mirror of conscience; maturity has already seen itself there. That is the whole difference between the two phases of life.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Le Père Goriot by Honoré de Balzac, 1835
Human behavior is driven by self‑interest and fleeting impulses, causing moral inconsistency between youth and maturity.
In simple terms: People act out of self‑interest, changing morals over time.
Key Takeaway
Recognize self‑interest and seek genuine conscience.
Themes
self‑interest
morality
growth
identity
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
literary
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- personal relationships
- ethical dilemmas
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
ethical theory
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate genuine conscience from self‑serving rationalization?
- What habits can align youthful ambition with mature ethics?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can be rationalized, obscuring true moral accountability.
