“The greatest pleasures are only narrowly separated from disgust.”
- January 3, 106 BC – December 7, 43 BC
- Roman
- Orator, Philosopher, Statesman, Lawyer, Author
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Quote
“The greatest pleasures are only narrowly separated from disgust.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Cicero’s deep awareness of human nature, particularly the fine line between excess and revulsion. The statement suggests that the intensity of pleasure can easily tip into its opposite—disgust—when pursued without restraint or moderation. For example, an indulgent feast can bring delight, but overindulgence quickly turns that joy into nausea. The proximity of pleasure and disgust is not physical but psychological, rooted in our shifting perceptions and the delicate balance of satisfaction.
In Cicero’s time, Roman philosophers were concerned with the limits of hedonism and the virtues of temperance, particularly in the Stoic and Academic traditions he engaged with. This quote may be seen as a critique of sensual excess, cautioning that what begins as gratifying can swiftly become offensive or degrading. It mirrors the Roman moralists’ view that discipline and self-control are necessary to preserve dignity and well-being.
In modern life, this principle is vividly evident in areas like consumerism, addiction, or entertainment. What people crave—be it food, fame, or stimulation—can quickly become overwhelming or repulsive when taken too far. Cicero’s insight remains relevant as a reminder that pleasure without moderation often leads to its own undoing.
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