Contrary Quote by Richard Whately
“It is not that pearls fetch a high price because men have dived for them; but on the contrary, men have dived for them because they fetch a high price.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Elements of Moral Philosophy, 1824
People pursue valuable things because they are valuable, not because the value is created by the pursuit.
In simple terms: Value drives desire, not the other way around.
Key Takeaway
Recognize true value before chasing it.
Themes
value
motivation
economics
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
economic
motivational
When to use this quote
- investment decisions
- career choices
- collecting
- resource allocation
Key Concepts
intrinsic worth
human behavior
incentives
Questions to Reflect On
- What truly makes something valuable?
- Do you chase value or the perception of value?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes rational valuation, ignoring status or speculative bubbles.
