"This avidity alone, of acquiring goods and possessions for ourselves and our nearest friends, is insatiable, perpetual, universal, and directly destructive of society"

David Hume, a popular 18th-century theorist, provides a compelling analysis of human nature in the quote, "This avidity alone, of acquiring goods and ownerships for ourselves and our nearest pals, is insatiable, continuous, universal, and directly damaging of society". Here, Hume looks into the fundamental human drive for accumulation and possession, presuming that it is an essential and unending aspect of human habits. This drive, according to Hume, is not just insatiable and perpetual, implying it is never ever completely pleased and constantly relentless, but it is likewise universal, existing across all human societies irrespective of culture or historic context.

Hume's option of the word "avidity" highlights the extreme passion and appetite that human beings have for obtaining resources. This desire isn't restricted to individual gain; it encompasses benefiting those closest to us, like family and friends. The term "for ourselves and our nearby good friends" highlights a shared, cumulative ambition that is deeply entrenched in social and familial bonds.

Nevertheless, Hume critically explains the darker side of this universal trait. He alerts that such unrelenting pursuit of build-up can be "straight damaging of society". By this, Hume recommends that when the desire for individual gain overrides social considerations, it can result in damaging consequences such as greed, inequality, and conflict. The individualistic drive to accumulate items can wear down the social material, as individuals may focus on personal advantage over communal well-being. This ruthless drive can foster an environment where cooperation is diminished, and social cohesion is compromised.

Hume's insight resonates with contemporary concerns, where consumerism and materialism typically eclipse neighborhood worths and ethical factors to consider. The caution functions as a pointer that unattended desire for wealth and ownerships can weaken social structures and cause more comprehensive social harm. Therefore, Hume's quote requires a balance between private ambitions and the welfare of society, urging humankind to acknowledge the possible destructiveness of pressing greed.