“If I were dropped out of a plane into the ocean and told the nearest land was a thousand miles away, I’d still swim. And I’d despise the one who gave up.”
- April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970
- American
- Psychologist, Creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Humanistic Psychology Pioneer
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Quote
“If I were dropped out of a plane into the ocean and told the nearest land was a thousand miles away, I’d still swim. And I’d despise the one who gave up.”
Explanation
This quote, often attributed to Abraham Maslow, expresses a fiercely existential and moral resolve—the idea that the effort to survive or strive is meaningful in itself, regardless of the outcome. The act of swimming, even when success is nearly impossible, symbolizes human perseverance, dignity, and willpower. More than just physical survival, it reflects a refusal to surrender one’s inner spirit or moral integrity in the face of hopeless odds. To give up, in Maslow’s view, would be to betray the human potential for courage and greatness.
This aligns with Maslow’s broader philosophy of self-actualization, where living authentically and striving toward one’s highest values is essential—even in the face of uncertainty or suffering. Maslow often spoke about peak experiences and the inner drive to transcend limitations, suggesting that individuals must live with purpose even when external success is not guaranteed. The quote also contains a judgmental edge—the stated contempt for those who quit suggests that Maslow saw surrender not as humility, but as a moral failure to embrace one’s full humanity.
In today’s world, this quote resonates with those who endure adversity, illness, or impossible odds yet choose to act with resolve. Whether it’s an activist fighting against systemic injustice, a patient facing terminal illness with grace, or an entrepreneur persisting after failure, the principle remains: effort matters more than the likelihood of success. Maslow’s declaration is a challenge to all of us: to keep swimming, no matter how far the shore.
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