Desire Quote by Quintilian
“Forbidden pleasures alone are loved immoderately; when lawful, they do not excite desire.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Institutio Oratoria, Book I, 2nd century AD
Excessive desire for forbidden things leads to overindulgence, while lawful pleasures are less compelling.
In simple terms: Forbidden things tempt more than allowed ones.
Key Takeaway
Seek balance and moderation in desires.
Themes
ethics
desire
self‑control
lawfulness
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- dietary habits
- entertainment choices
- consumer behavior
Key Concepts
Philosophy of pleasure
Stoic moderation
Questions to Reflect On
- Why are some pleasures more alluring?
- How can you moderate cravings?
A Different Perspective
Cultural norms shape what is deemed “forbidden.”
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
