Laughed Quote by Robert Burton
““Hippocrates asked the reason why he laughed. He told him, at the vanities and the fopperies of the time, to see men so empty of all virtuous actions, to hunt so far after gold, having no end of ambition; to take such infinite pains for a little glory, and to be favoured of men; to make such deep mines into the earth for gold, and many times to find nothing, with loss of their lives and fortunes. Some to love dogs, others horses, some to desire to be obeyed in many provinces,{233} and yet themselves will know no obedience.{234} Some to love their wives dearly at first, and after a while to forsake and hate them; begetting children, with much care and cost for their education, yet when they grow to man's estate,{235} to despise, neglect, and leave them naked to the world's mercy.{236} Do not these behaviours express their intolerable folly? When men live in peace, they covet war, detesting quietness,{237} deposing kings, and advancing others in their stead, murdering some men to beget children of their wives. How many strange humours””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Anatomy of Melancholy by Robert Burton, 1621
Burton satirically critiques human folly: endless pursuit of wealth, fleeting glory, fickle love, and the paradox of seeking peace while desiring war, exposing the absurdities of ambition and obedience.
In simple terms: People chase empty ambitions and contradictory desires, revealing their foolishness.
Key Takeaway
Question the true value of ambition and conformity.
Themes
human folly
ambition
contradiction
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career planning
- relationship choices
- political leadership
- personal growth
Key Concepts
satire
philosophy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What ambitions serve the greater good?
- How do we reconcile desire for peace with human nature?
A Different Perspective
Ambition can also drive progress and innovation.
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