“This self-love is the instrument of our preservation; it resembles the provision for the perpetuity of mankind: it is necessary, it is dear to us, it gives us pleasure, and we must conceal it.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“This self-love is the instrument of our preservation; it resembles the provision for the perpetuity of mankind: it is necessary, it is dear to us, it gives us pleasure, and we must conceal it.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s complex understanding of self-love, suggesting that it is a natural and essential force in human existence. He argues that self-love is crucial for our survival and well-being, as it drives us to take care of ourselves, seek pleasure, and ensure our perpetuation. Voltaire acknowledges that self-love is both necessary and pleasurable, yet he implies that it must be concealed, perhaps because it can appear selfish or excessive if openly expressed.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the idea of self-care and self-preservation. While taking care of oneself is vital for mental and physical health, society often expects people to balance self-interest with concern for others. Voltaire’s statement highlights the tension between the need for self-love and the social pressure to downplay or conceal it in order to appear humble or altruistic.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in the way people sometimes struggle with self-care in the face of societal expectations. While prioritizing one’s own well-being is important, many people hide or feel guilty about indulging in self-care, especially when they feel it might be perceived as selfish. Voltaire’s quote serves as a reminder of the balance between taking care of ourselves and meeting societal expectations of modesty or selflessness.
