Happiness Quote by Thomas More
““...if pride, that plague of human nature, that source of so much misery, did not hinder it; for this vice does not measure happiness so much by its own conveniences, as by the misery of others; and would not be satisfied with being thought a goddess, if none were left that were miserable, over whom she might insult. Pride thinks its own happiness shines the brighter, by comparing it with the misfortunes of other persons; that by displaying its own wealth they may feel their poverty the more sensibly.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Utopia, 1516
Critiques pride as a destructive force that measures happiness by others' suffering.
In simple terms: Pride harms by comparing to others' misery.
Key Takeaway
Avoid pride, seek genuine happiness.
Themes
pride
ethics
human nature
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
ethical
psychological
When to use this quote
- leadership
- social interactions
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
comparative happiness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does pride affect your decisions?
- Can pride ever be constructive?
A Different Perspective
Pride can sometimes motivate achievement.
