Astonishing Quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
“Conscience is the voice of the soul, the passions are the voice of the body. Is it astonishing that often these two languages contradict each other, and then to which must we listen? Too often reason deceives us; we have only too much acquired the right of refusing to listen to it; but conscience never deceives us; it is the true guide of man; it is to man what instinct is to the body; which follows it, obeys nature, and never is afraid of going astray.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Emile, or On Education, 1762
The inner moral compass (conscience) often clashes with bodily desires, and while reason can mislead, conscience remains a reliable guide aligned with nature.
In simple terms: Conscience guides truthfully, unlike fleeting passions or flawed reason.
Key Takeaway
Trust your conscience over fleeting desires.
Themes
morality
inner conflict
nature
reason
instinct
Mood
reflective
serious
thoughtful
Type
aphilosophical
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- making ethical decisions
- personal growth
- conflict resolution
- leadership
- counseling
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
human nature
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate conscience from socially imposed values?
- When should reason override conscience?
A Different Perspective
Conscience can be clouded by cultural conditioning, making it hard to discern true guidance.
