"All, all is theft, all is unceasing and rigorous competition in nature; the desire to make off with the substance of others is the foremost - the most legitimate - passion nature has bred into us and, without doubt, the most agreeable one"
- Marquis de Sade
About this Quote
This quote by Marquis de Sade speaks with the idea that people are naturally self-centered and competitive. He suggests that the desire to draw from others is the most natural and satisfying enthusiasm that nature has instilled in us. He suggests that whatever in nature is a kind of theft, as we are all contending for resources and attempting to get ahead of one another. This quote reflects the concept that people are driven by their own self-interest which competitors is a natural part of life. It also recommends that the desire to take from others is a legitimate and even preferable enthusiasm. Ultimately, this quote speaks with the idea that human beings are naturally self-centered and competitive, and that this is an inescapable part of life.