Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
John AdamsRead
A desire to be observed, considered, esteemed, praised, beloved, and admired by his fellows is one of the earliest as well as the keenest dispositions discovered in the heart of man.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans have an inherent desire to be valued and recognized by others.
This quote by John Adams speaks to the fundamental human need for recognition and approval from our peers. It suggests that being acknowledged and esteemed by others is a deep-seated aspect of human nature, indicating our social instincts and emotional connections to the world around us.
Themes
DesireRecognitionEsteemAdmirationHuman Nature
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about community, one might use this quote to underline the importance of mutual recognition in relationships.
More from John Adams
All quotes →Property monopolized or in the possession of a few is a curse to mankind.
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Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
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There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
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Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
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The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
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