“ Very often another's advancement and prosperity produces envy, which has a strong mixture of hatred, and arises chiefly from the comparison of ourselves with the person. ”
David Hume, An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals (1751). copy citation
| Author | David Hume |
|---|---|
| Source | An Enquiry Concerning the Principles of Morals |
| Topic | comparison envy |
| Date | 1751 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/4320/4320-h/4320-h.htm |
Context
“And as regard or contempt is the natural consequence of those different situations in life, it is easily seen what additional light and evidence this throws on our preceding theory, with regard to all moral distinctions.
[Footnote: There is something extraordinary, and seemingly unaccountable in the operation of our passions, when we consider the fortune and situation of others. Very often another's advancement and prosperity produces envy, which has a strong mixture of hatred, and arises chiefly from the comparison of ourselves with the person. At the very same time, or at least in very short intervals, we may feel the passion of respect, which is a species of affection or good-will, with a mixture of humility. On the other hand, the misfortunes of our fellows often cause pity, which has in it a strong mixture of good-will.”
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