Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.
Blaise PascalRead
When everyone is moving towards depravity, no one seems to be moving, but if someone stops he shows up the others who are rushing on, by acting as a fixed point.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote illustrates the value of standing firm in one's principles, especially when faced with moral decline.
Blaise Pascal's quote suggests that in a society where general behavior is trending towards moral decay, it often feels as if no one is making significant choices. However, when a person decides to halt their rush towards depravity, they highlight the chaotic movement of others, thus serving as a moral anchor. This action not only demonstrates the importance of individual choice but also exposes the current state of society's values.
Themes
MoralityDepravityIndividualitySocietyPrinciples
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speech addressing youth about the importance of maintaining integrity amidst peer pressure.
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If he exalts himself, I humble him. If he humbles himself, I exalt him. And I go on contradicting him Until he understands That he is a monster that passes all understanding.
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What use is it to us to hear it said of a man that he has thrown off the yoke that he does not believe there is a God to watch over his actions, that he reckons himself the sole master of his behavior, and that he does not intend to give an account of it to anyone but himself?
Blaise PascalRead
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