“The charm of fame is so great that we like every object to which it is attached, even death.”
- June 19, 1623 – August 19, 1662
- French
- Mathematician, Physicist, Inventor, Philosopher, Theologian
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Quote
“The charm of fame is so great that we like every object to which it is attached, even death.”
Explanation
Pascal exposes the powerful—and often dangerous—appeal of fame, noting that when something is associated with glory or renown, even something as grim as death can become attractive. The allure of being remembered, admired, or celebrated is so strong that it can distort our values, leading us to embrace or romanticize things we would otherwise fear or reject. Fame can thus cloak suffering or destruction in a seductive light, turning even death into something desirable if it brings honor.
In Pensées, Pascal frequently critiques the vanity and illusion of worldly pursuits, including fame. He sees the human hunger for recognition as a form of self-deception, rooted in pride and the desire to escape our inherent weakness. Rather than seeking truth or goodness, many are drawn to appearances and the admiration of others, even if it means risking everything—including life itself. For Pascal, this reflects how far people will go to avoid facing their own smallness and mortality.
In the modern world, Pascal’s insight is remarkably relevant, especially in a culture that glorifies fame and visibility, sometimes at great cost. From celebrities to influencers to historical figures, people often admire those who died dramatically or tragically, so long as their story is wrapped in renown. His quote warns us not to confuse fame with virtue or meaning, and to remember that true greatness lies not in being seen, but in being good—even if the world never notices.
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