Men hate the individual whom they call avaricious only because there is nothing to be gained by him.

What did Voltaire mean by:

Men hate the individual whom they call avaricious only because there is nothing to be gained by him.

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This quote reflects on the concept of avarice, or extreme greed, and its perception in society. It suggests that people dislike those labeled as avaricious not because of their greed, but because they offer no benefit to others. This person is viewed negatively because their wealth is not accessible or beneficial to those around them.

The quote implies that if the avaricious individual were to share or distribute their wealth, they would not be as disliked. This speaks to a fundamental aspect of human nature: we tend to favor those who can offer us something, whether it’s material gain, emotional support, or other forms of assistance. If someone is seen as hoarding their resources without contributing to the welfare of others, they are often met with disdain.

Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see parallels in how society views the extremely wealthy, particularly those who are perceived as not giving back to the community or society at large. Billionaires who hoard their wealth and avoid taxes are often criticized, while those who pledge to give away a majority of their wealth to charity are celebrated.

In terms of personal development, this quote could serve as a reminder of the importance of generosity and community involvement. It suggests that to be respected and liked by others, one must be willing to share their resources and help those around them. This doesn’t necessarily mean giving away all of one’s wealth, but rather contributing to the welfare of others in whatever way one can. It could be volunteering time, donating to a cause, or simply helping a neighbor in need. In essence, it’s about not hoarding one’s resources, whether they be material or otherwise, and instead using them to benefit others.

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