“By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property.”
- 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
“By appreciation, we make excellence in others our own property.”
Explanation
This quote highlights Voltaire’s belief in the transformative power of gratitude and recognition. He suggests that when we truly appreciate the talents, virtues, or achievements of others, we internalize their excellence as part of our own growth and understanding. Through admiration, we connect with and learn from the qualities we value in others, effectively enriching ourselves.
In modern contexts, this principle is particularly relevant in fostering collaboration and personal development. Appreciating others not only strengthens relationships but also provides opportunities for growth by allowing us to adopt and emulate their positive traits. For instance, recognizing a colleague’s creativity or perseverance can inspire us to cultivate those qualities in our own work.
A practical example of this can be found in mentorship. When a mentee appreciates and learns from the wisdom of their mentor, they integrate those lessons into their own experiences, making the mentor’s excellence a part of their journey. Voltaire’s quote serves as a reminder of the profound mutual enrichment that comes from recognizing and valuing the best in others.
