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September 16, 2006
making comparison with others
We judge ourselves happy or unhappy only by making comparison with others. Out of this self-love springs the desire to acquire value in the opinion of others. This is originally a desire merely for equality, to allow no one superiority above oneself, bound up with a constant care lest others strive to attain such superiority, but from this arises gradually the unjustifiable craving to win such superiority for oneself over others. Upon this twin stem of jealousy and rivalry may be grafted the very great vices of secret and open animosity against all whom we look upon as not belonging to us.
Immanuel Kant - Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone
Posted by amin at September 16, 2006 12:26 AM