“If we only wanted to be happy, it would be easy; but we want to be happier than other people, and that is almost always difficult, since we think them happier than they are.”
- January 18, 1689 – February 10, 1755
- French
- Political Philosopher, Jurist, Author of The Spirit of the Laws
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Quote
“If we only wanted to be happy, it would be easy; but we want to be happier than other people, and that is almost always difficult, since we think them happier than they are.”
Explanation
Montesquieu points to a fundamental flaw in human nature: the pursuit of relative rather than absolute happiness. He observes that true contentment is attainable, but we often sabotage it by comparing ourselves to others. This desire not just to be happy, but to be happier than others, transforms happiness into a competition—one fueled by illusion and envy.
The deeper irony Montesquieu reveals is that we base these comparisons on false assumptions. We often imagine others are happier than they truly are, projecting joy onto their lives while underestimating their struggles. This misperception creates a perpetual cycle of dissatisfaction, where no amount of personal achievement or joy feels sufficient because it fails to surpass what we imagine others possess.
In the modern world, this insight is especially relevant in the age of social media, where curated images and selective sharing create a distorted view of other people’s lives. People chase after lifestyles or accolades not for their intrinsic value, but to feel superior or validated. Montesquieu reminds us that peace of mind comes not from comparison, but from valuing one’s own genuine experiences and letting go of the illusion that others are living happier lives.
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