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Every day Quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau

“The spectacle of nature, by growing quite familiar to him, becomes at last equally indifferent. It is constantly the same order, constantly the same revolutions; he has not sense enough to feel surprise at the sight of the greatest wonders; and it is not in his mind we must look for that…” quote by Jean-Jacques Rousseau
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““ The spectacle of nature, by growing quite familiar to him, becomes at last equally indifferent. It is constantly the same order, constantly the same revolutions; he has not sense enough to feel surprise at the sight of the greatest wonders; and it is not in his mind we must look for that philosophy, which man must have to know how to observe once, what he has every day seen." Jean Jacques Rousseau, On the Inequality among Mankind, Ch. 1, 20.””

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

About This Quote

Source Book: On the Inequality among Mankind, Ch. 1, 1775

Familiarity breeds indifference; constant exposure to nature dulls wonder, preventing deeper philosophical insight.

In simple terms: Familiarity dulls wonder

Key Takeaway

Cultivate fresh perspectives

Themes

philosophy nature indifference

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • education
  • creative practice
  • mindful observation

Key Concepts

existentialism mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you renew awe in daily life?
  • What practices keep observation fresh?
A Different Perspective

Over‑familiarity can lead to complacency

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