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Art Quote by Soren Kierkegaard

“In the end, therefore, money will be the one thing people will desire, which is moreover only representative, an abstraction. Nowadays a young man hardly envies anyone his gifts, his art, the love of a beautiful girl, or his fame; he only envies him his money. Give me money, he will say, and I am…” quote by Soren Kierkegaard
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“In the end, therefore, money will be the one thing people will desire, which is moreover only representative, an abstraction. Nowadays a young man hardly envies anyone his gifts, his art, the love of a beautiful girl, or his fame; he only envies him his money. Give me money, he will say, and I am saved...He would die with nothing to reproach himself with, and under the impression that if only he had had the money he might really have lived and might even have achieved something great.”

Soren Kierkegaard

About This Quote

People often view money as the ultimate solution to life's problems, overlooking deeper values like art, love, and personal fulfillment.

In simple terms: Money is seen as a cure-all, but true fulfillment comes from non‑material sources.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaning beyond wealth.

Themes

materialism existentialism values

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical contemplative

When to use this quote

  • career choices
  • relationship building
  • creative pursuits

Key Concepts

consumerism self‑worth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What non‑material goals truly satisfy you?
  • How does society’s focus on money shape personal identity?
A Different Perspective

Wealth alone cannot guarantee happiness or moral integrity.

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