Arrogance Quote by Moshe Safdie
“He who seeks truth shall find beauty. He who seeks beauty shall find vanity. He who seeks order shall find gratification. He who seeks gratification shall be disappointed. He who considers himself the servant of his fellow beings shall find the joy of self-expression. He who seeks self-expression shall fall into the pit of arrogance.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on Human Aspirations, Moshe Safdie, 2015
Pursuing truth leads to beauty, but beauty can become vanity; seeking order yields gratification, yet gratification may disappoint; serving others brings self‑expression, which can breed arrogance.
In simple terms: Seeking truth, order, service brings mixed outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Balance pursuit with humility and awareness.
Themes
truth
beauty
vanity
order
gratification
service
self‑expression
arrogance
Mood
thoughtful
cautionary
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- Personal growth
- leadership
- creative work
- community service
Key Concepts
Philosophy of desire
ethical paradox
human motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can one seek truth without falling into vanity?
- What safeguards prevent arrogance in self‑expression?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on any single goal can cause imbalance.
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