This quote by Friedrich Nietzsche is a profound statement about understanding not just philosophers but people in general. It suggests that to truly comprehend someone’s thoughts or ideas, we should not merely focus on the words they say, but rather, we should strive to understand their desires, motivations, and intentions.

In the context of a philosopher, Nietzsche is implying that the philosophy or the ideas a philosopher puts forth are driven by their underlying desires or wants. Therefore, to understand the philosophy, one must first understand the philosopher’s wants.

Applying this to today’s world, this concept could be used in a variety of contexts. In a political context, for example, understanding a politician’s motivations and desires can give a deeper insight into their policies or actions. Similarly, in a business context, understanding a leader’s or a company’s desires can provide a better understanding of their strategies and decisions.

In terms of personal development, this idea could be applied in the way we interact with others. Often, conflicts or misunderstandings arise because we focus on what people say, not what they want or mean. By trying to understand the underlying desires or motivations, we could potentially improve our relationships and interactions with others.

Moreover, this concept can also be applied to self-understanding and personal growth. Often, we might find ourselves saying or doing things that don’t align with our true desires or intentions. By taking the time to understand our own wants and motivations, we can gain a better understanding of ourselves, which can lead to personal growth and development.