Absurd Quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
“Our passions are the chief means of self-preservation; to try to destroy them is therefore as absurd as it is useless; this would be to overcome nature, to reshape God's handiwork. If God bade man annihilate the passions he has given him, God would bid him be and not be; He would contradict himself. He has never given such a foolish commandment, there is nothing like it written on the heart of man, and what God will have a man do, He does not leave to the words of another man. He speaks Himself; His words are written in the secret heart.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Emile, or On Education, 1762
Passions are essential to human survival; trying to eliminate them contradicts nature and divine intent.
In simple terms: Passions protect us; destroying them is absurd.
Key Takeaway
Respect and understand your passions.
Themes
human nature
religion
psychology
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
self‑preservation
divine order
human instinct
Questions to Reflect On
- How do your passions guide your decisions?
- What risks arise from denying natural desires?
A Different Perspective
Attempting to suppress passions can lead to psychological distress.
