“I have read descriptions of Paradise that would make any sensible person stop wanting to go there.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“I have read descriptions of Paradise that would make any sensible person stop wanting to go there.”
Explanation
Montesquieu satirizes the human tendency to imagine Paradise—or any ideal afterlife—through narrow, unimaginative, or overly simplistic visions. Instead of inspiring longing, such portrayals often reflect cultural stereotypes, personal desires, or rigid religious dogmas that fail to appeal to the thoughtful or inquisitive mind. In doing so, he critiques both the literalism and the limited imagination of some religious teachings.
This quote reflects the Enlightenment emphasis on reason, individuality, and skepticism toward dogma. Montesquieu suggests that if Paradise is merely a place of eternal comfort without intellectual, moral, or emotional richness, then it may not be paradise at all for the reflective soul. The idea of a heavenly reward loses its appeal if it offers no growth, challenge, or deeper meaning—turning eternity into tedium rather than bliss.
In modern terms, this remark speaks to how ideals—whether religious, political, or cultural—must be critically examined. When visions of perfection are defined too narrowly or presented without nuance, they risk alienating the very people they are meant to inspire. Montesquieu reminds us that a truly desirable paradise would need to satisfy not just our desires, but our reason and our imagination.
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