“The young are permanently in a state resembling intoxication.”
- 384 BC – 322 BC
- Originating from Macedonia in ancient Greece
- Philosopher and scientist, founder of the Lyceum academy
- A student of Plato, he constructed systematic knowledge in logic, biology, politics, ethics, etc., and had a major impact on the development of Western thought and science
Quote
“The young are permanently in a state resembling intoxication.”
Explanation
In this quote, Aristotle uses the metaphor of intoxication to describe the youthful state of mind. He suggests that young people often experience life with a kind of exuberance, recklessness, or passion, similar to the effects of being intoxicated. This can manifest in their emotions, decisions, and actions, which are often driven by impulsivity, idealism, and a lack of full understanding of the consequences. While intoxicated individuals may act without full rational control, the young, too, can be eager and overzealous, sometimes making decisions based more on desire than careful consideration. This “intoxicated” state can be both positive, as it brings energy and enthusiasm, and negative, as it may lead to poor judgment or mistakes.
This concept remains relevant today when we consider the impulsiveness and idealism often associated with youth. Adolescence and young adulthood are periods of intense emotional development and exploration, during which individuals may experiment with ideas, values, and lifestyles, sometimes without fully understanding the consequences of their actions. This stage of life is often characterized by risk-taking behavior and a desire to experience life to its fullest, which can result in both growth and missteps.
For example, a young person might be highly enthusiastic about a new cause or career path, jumping in with excitement but without fully considering the practical challenges. Similarly, in relationships, young people may experience intense emotions that drive them to act passionately, sometimes without understanding the complexity or long-term implications. Aristotle’s metaphor highlights that while this youthful energy and exuberance can lead to great achievements, it is often tempered by a lack of experience and the wisdom that comes with age. It reminds us that this “intoxicated” state of mind is a natural phase of development and an important part of growing into more balanced and thoughtful individuals.
