"Ambition is a drug that makes its addicts potential madmen"
- Emile M. Cioran
About this Quote
This quote by Emile M. Cioran speaks to the power of aspiration and how it can drive people to do severe things. Ambition is an effective emotion that can encourage individuals to attain terrific things, however it can also be an unsafe force. When aspiration is required to a severe, it can result in fascination and a disregard for the effects of one's actions. This can lead to individuals ending up being "madmen" in their pursuit of their objectives, typically at the cost of their own well-being and the wellness of those around them. Aspiration can be an excellent motivator, however it is necessary to bear in mind to keep it in check and to be conscious of the potential consequences of one's actions.
"Me only have one ambition, y'know. I only have one thing I really like to see happen. I like to see mankind live together - black, white, Chinese, everyone - that's all"
"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved"
"The average Hollywood film star's ambition is to be admired by an American, courted by an Italian, married to an Englishman and have a French boyfriend"