“Use, do not abuse… neither abstinence nor excess ever renders man happy.”
- 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
“Use, do not abuse… neither abstinence nor excess ever renders man happy.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s balanced approach to life, emphasizing moderation as the key to happiness. He argues that both indulgence and extreme self-denial are counterproductive and fail to bring true happiness. Instead of either overindulging in pleasures or completely abstaining from them, Voltaire advocates for a thoughtful, balanced approach to life, where one enjoys the good things in moderation.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates with health, well-being, and mindfulness. For example, extreme dieting or overindulgence in food, work, or pleasure can lead to stress, dissatisfaction, or even physical harm. Voltaire’s message encourages us to pursue a middle path, where we engage with life’s pleasures in a way that promotes lasting contentment rather than fleeting satisfaction or long-term frustration.
A specific example of this principle can be seen in the philosophy of “moderation” often promoted in areas like fitness, nutrition, and personal development. Rather than depriving oneself entirely or overindulging in luxuries, finding a balanced approach—such as mindful eating or exercising without obsession—tends to lead to better, sustainable outcomes. Voltaire’s quote reminds us that true happiness lies in balance, where we enjoy life’s pleasures without allowing them to dominate or overwhelm us.
