The want of occupation is no less the plague of society than of solitude.

This quote suggests that a lack of purpose or engagement, whether in a social or solitary context, is detrimental. It implies that idleness can be a ‘plague’, a destructive force, both in society and in solitude. In a societal context, when people are idle, they may become restless, discontented, or even engage in harmful activities. Similarly, in solitude, a lack of occupation can lead to feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or despair.

The quote also hints at the fundamental human need for purpose and engagement. We thrive when we have something to occupy our minds and our time, something that gives us a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Whether in the company of others or alone, we need meaningful activity to feel fulfilled and content.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we can see the effects of idleness in various societal issues. For example, high rates of unemployment often correlate with increased crime rates. This could be seen as a manifestation of the ‘plague’ of idleness. On a personal level, individuals who lack a sense of purpose or occupation often struggle with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

In the realm of personal development, this quote underscores the importance of finding meaningful work or hobbies that engage us and give us a sense of purpose. It suggests that in order to lead fulfilling lives, we need to find ways to occupy our time that are meaningful and satisfying, whether that’s through work, hobbies, relationships, or other pursuits. It’s not enough to simply be busy; we need to be engaged in activities that bring us joy, satisfaction, and a sense of accomplishment.