"There is a lust in man no charm can tame: Of loudly publishing his neighbor's shame: On eagles wings immortal scandals fly, while virtuous actions are born and die"
About this Quote
The quote by William Harvey encapsulates an extensive observation about human nature and society's penchant for sensationalism and gossip. Harvey recommends that there exists a fundamental, almost primal desire within people-- a "lust"-- that is beyond the reach of control or suppression by any ethical or ethical appeal. This desire drives people to expose or enhance their neighbor's faults and misbehaviours. It is as if this compulsion to expose and revel in the drawbacks of others is an important part of the human psyche.
The example of "eagles wings" conveys the speed and splendour with which scandals and negative stories about others spread. Scandals, like marvelous eagles, appear to soar and pass through great distances easily, suggesting that negative info not just takes a trip rapidly however also mesmerizes those who experience it. In contrast, virtuous actions-- deeds that embody morality, generosity, or heroism-- do not get the very same attention or glorification. They are "born and die", suggesting that they often go unnoticed or are rapidly forgotten regardless of their favorable effect.
Harvey's observation highlights a societal propensity to prioritize the spectacular over the sublime. While this behavior could be rooted in a range of psychological or cultural elements, consisting of envy, schadenfreude, or the inherent enjoyment of scandal, it underscores a repeating style in literature and philosophy: that people frequently intensify the negative at the expense of the positive.
This quote encourages reflection on how society worths and distributes details. It challenges individuals to think about the effects of this imbalance and perhaps strive for a change in point of view. By acknowledging this "desire", individuals might become more aware of their biases towards scandal and purposely pick to celebrate virtues, therefore raising actions that inspire and boost, instead of those that degrade and divide.
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