Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?
DiogenesRead
Most men are within a finger's breadth of being mad.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that the line between sanity and madness is very thin.
Diogenes' assertion reflects a profound insight into human nature, suggesting that the distinction between sanity and madness is precariously narrow. It invites contemplation on the fragility of the human mind, encouraging individuals to recognize the fine line that separates rational behavior from irrationality, and may prompt a deeper exploration of what constitutes normalcy in our thoughts and actions.
Themes
SanityMadnessHuman NaturePhilosophyFragility
In practice
Example use cases
In a philosophical discussion about human behavior.
More from Diogenes
All quotes βThe art of being a slave is to rule one's master.
DiogenesRead
As a matter of self-preservation, a man needs good friends or ardent enemies, for the former instruct him and the latter take him to task.
DiogenesRead
I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.
DiogenesRead
We come into the world alone and we die alone. Why, in life, should we be any less alone?
DiogenesRead
All things are in common among friends.
DiogenesRead
Similar quotes
I think a person has to believe in something,_x000D_ or search out some kind of faith;_x000D_ otherwise life is empty, nothing._x000D_ How can you live not knowing why the cranes fly,_x000D_ why children are born, why there are stars in the sky..._x000D_ Either you know why you live,_x000D_ or it's all small, unnecessary bits.
Sarah RuhlRead
Whoever desires to found a state and give it laws, must start with assuming that all men are bad and ever ready to display their vicious nature, whenever they may find occasion for it.
Niccolo MachiavelliRead
I believe every chess player senses beauty, when he succeeds in creating situations, which contradict the expectations and the rules, and he succeeds in mastering this situation.
Vladimir KramnikRead
Equal protection under the law - for race, religion, gender or sexual orientation - should not be subject to the most popular sentiments of the day.
Cory BookerRead
They say people can think for themselves? Do you honestly believe that the chap who canβt pass primary six knows the consequence of his choice when he answers a question viscerally, on language, culture and religion? But we knew the consequences. We would starve, we would have race riots. We would disintegrate.
Lee Kuan YewRead
We have lingered in the chambers of the sea By sea-girls wreathed with seaweed red and brown Till human voices wake us... and we drown.
T. S. EliotRead