Career Quote by Karl Marx
“[The career a young man should choose should be] one that is most consonant with our dignity, one that is based on ideas of whose truth we are wholly convinced, one that offers us largest scope in working for humanity and approaching that general goal towards which each profession offers only one of the means: the goal of perfection ... If he works only for himself he can become a famous scholar, a great sage, an excellent imaginative writer [ Dichter ], but never a perfected, a truly great man.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Communist Manifesto, 1848
A profession should align with personal dignity, truth, and serve humanity, aiming for perfection rather than selfish fame.
In simple terms: Choose work that matches dignity, truth, and humanity.
Seek meaningful, altruistic work.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- career planning
- academic pursuits
- creative writing
- public service
- leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “perfection” mean to you?
- How can you balance personal ambition with serving humanity?
Self‑interest can limit personal growth and societal impact.