Banquets Quote by Samuel Johnson
“A continual feast of commendation is only to be obtained by merit or by wealth: many are therefore obliged to content themselves with single morsels, and recompense the infrequency of their enjoyment by excess and riot, whenever fortune sets the banquet before them.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Moral Economy", 1756
People often settle for small pleasures, compensating with excess when rare opportunities arise, highlighting human greed.
In simple terms: Small pleasures lead to excess when rare.
Key Takeaway
Beware overindulgence.
Themes
greed
economics
human nature
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- budgeting
- celebrations
- luxury purchases
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we overindulge?
- How can moderation be cultivated?
A Different Perspective
May ignore structural causes.
