"To give aid to every poor man is far beyond the reach and power of every man. Care of the poor is incumbent on society as a whole"
- Baruch Spinoza
About this Quote
In this quote, Baruch Spinoza highlights the limitations of specific efforts in helping the bad. He recommends that it is not possible for every single individual to provide help to every poor man, as it is beyond their reach and power. Instead, Spinoza argues that the obligation of taking care of the bad falls on society as a whole. This implies that it is the collective duty of the community to attend to the needs of the less lucky. Spinoza's words act as a pointer that the issue of hardship can not be fixed by private actions alone, however needs a cumulative effort from society.
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"