Able Quote by John Ruskin
![“[For men] to feel their souls withering within them, unthanked, to find their whole being sunk into an unrecognized abyss, to be counted off into a heap of mechanism numbered with its wheels, and weighed with its hammer strokes - this, nature bade not, - this, God blesses not, - this, humanity for…” quote by John Ruskin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c7f/john-ruskin-314_able_for-men-to-feel-their-souls-withering-wi_1354037.jpg)
“[For men] to feel their souls withering within them, unthanked, to find their whole being sunk into an unrecognized abyss, to be counted off into a heap of mechanism numbered with its wheels, and weighed with its hammer strokes - this, nature bade not, - this, God blesses not, - this, humanity for no long time is able to endure.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Unto a Man," 1868
Human beings feel dehumanized when reduced to mechanistic roles, lacking recognition and purpose, leading to existential despair.
In simple terms: Being treated like a machine causes deep unhappiness.
Key Takeaway
Seek meaningful, recognized work.
Themes
humanity
existence
recognition
alienation
purpose
Mood
reflective
melancholic
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
critique
When to use this quote
- workplace
- creative pursuits
- community service
- personal growth
Key Concepts
meaning
existential dread
societal mechanization
Questions to Reflect On
- What aspects of your life feel mechanized?
- How can you restore a sense of purpose?
A Different Perspective
Not all mechanistic systems are inherently oppressive.
