“If I became a philosopher, if I have so keenly sought this fame for which I’m still waiting, it’s all been to seduce women basically.”
- June 21, 1905 – April 15, 1980
- Born in France
- Philosopher, novelist, playwright
- He advocated existentialism and had a major influence on 20th century thought through works such as “Being and Nothingness” and “Nausea”
Quote
“If I became a philosopher, if I have so keenly sought this fame for which I’m still waiting, it’s all been to seduce women basically.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sartre humorously exposes the complex and often self-interested motivations behind his intellectual pursuits, revealing that beneath his philosophical ambitions, there may be an underlying desire to gain recognition and attraction—particularly from women. Sartre is acknowledging the ego-driven aspect of his philosophical quest, suggesting that the search for intellectual fame and reputation may be intertwined with the desire for admiration, attention, and romantic interest. This candid admission reflects the existential struggle between the public pursuit of meaning and the private, often unspoken, desires that motivate human behavior.
Sartre’s admission also touches on his existential belief in self-deception and bad faith, which is when individuals justify their actions with noble or abstract reasons while masking the more personal, often less admirable motives beneath the surface. Sartre is suggesting that much of what we do, even in the realm of intellectual ambition, may be driven by base desires or a search for external validation, rather than purely authentic or selfless pursuits. This reveals the tension between human freedom and the hidden motivations that shape our lives.
In modern contexts, this quote can be applied to the often complex motivations behind our own actions, whether in career, relationships, or personal growth. It serves as a reminder that we often engage in pursuits that we justify as idealistic or noble but may be motivated by self-interest, such as the desire for recognition, status, or approval. Sartre’s words encourage self-reflection on the true reasons behind our actions and the hidden desires that shape our lives, challenging us to move beyond self-deception and toward more authentic self-awareness.
