Famous quote by William Osler

"The natural man has only two primal passions, to get and to beget"

About this Quote

William Osler’s observation delves into the essence of human motivation by reducing it to two fundamental driving forces: acquisition and reproduction. The phrase “to get” refers broadly to the human urge for possession, encompassing not only the acquisition of material goods but also the pursuit of resources, security, and personal advancement. This primal passion manifests in countless ways: accumulating wealth, gaining power, satisfying hunger, and seeking protection or comfort. It anchors itself in survival instincts that have shaped human behavior since earliest times. The desire “to get” motivates exploration, innovation, and competition, fueling progress and ensuring that individuals and communities have the means to endure and thrive in an often-hostile world.

Contrasted with this is the second impulse, “to beget,” which signifies the biological and emotional urge to reproduce and nurture offspring. Beyond the basic act of procreation, it points to the enduring drive to perpetuate oneself and one’s lineage. The need to “beget” extends into the realms of family, legacy, and the future of the species. It fosters social bonds, cooperation, and the creation of the structures necessary for child-rearing, a foundation for the development of societies and cultures.

Osler’s assessment suggests that beneath the complexities of civilization and culture, beneath layers of ethics, intellect, and abstraction, these two primal passions continue to inform human action. Material acquisition and reproduction serve as the motivating bedrock for much of human thought and behavior, influencing everything from economic systems to family structures, social competition to interpersonal relationships. Even as humans aspire to higher ideals and sophisticated moral codes, the underlying drive “to get and to beget” remains an abiding force, shaping societies and individuals alike. Recognizing these basic motivations offers insight not only into human nature but into the recurrent patterns seen throughout history and across cultures.

About the Author

Canada Flag This quote is from William Osler between July 12, 1849 and December 29, 1919. He/she was a famous Scientist from Canada. The author also have 29 other quotes.
See more from William Osler

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