"To be stupid, selfish, and have good health are three requirements for happiness, though if stupidity is lacking, all is lost"
- Gustave Flaubert
About this Quote
In this quote, Gustave Flaubert suggests that there are 3 important aspects for accomplishing joy: stupidity, selfishness, and health. He argues that while these qualities might appear negative, they are really needed for true happiness. Flaubert believes that being silly enables one to live in ignorance and not be strained by the intricacies of the world. Selfishness allows one to prioritize their own requirements and desires, without being weighed down by the expectations of others. And good health ensures that a person can totally take pleasure in life without being hindered by physical constraints. Nevertheless, Flaubert also alerts that without stupidity, all hope for happiness is lost. This could be analyzed as a criticism of society's focus on intelligence and rationality, suggesting that often being silly and carefree can result in a more satisfying life.
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
