“He who is not just is severe, he who is not wise is sad.”
- 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
“He who is not just is severe, he who is not wise is sad.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s belief in the balance between justice and wisdom in shaping one’s character. He suggests that a person who lacks justice becomes harsh and unyielding, while someone who lacks wisdom becomes melancholy or disillusioned. Voltaire’s statement emphasizes the idea that true balance in life requires both fairness and insight. Without justice, a person becomes overly rigid or cruel, and without wisdom, they may be burdened by unnecessary sorrow or frustration.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with the importance of both emotional intelligence and moral integrity. In personal relationships or leadership, for instance, individuals who lack fairness can become authoritarian, while those who lack wisdom may struggle with decision-making or find themselves trapped by negative emotions. Voltaire’s words encourage us to cultivate both justice and wisdom in order to achieve balance and fulfillment in life.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in leadership. A leader who is unjust might make harsh, unfair decisions that alienate others, while a leader who is wise but lacks emotional intelligence may struggle with the burden of making tough decisions without the clarity of insight. Voltaire’s quote serves as a reminder that both justice and wisdom are essential for personal and professional growth, and when one is lacking, it can lead to negative outcomes.
