It was the passions about whose origin we deceived ourselves that tyrannized most strongly over us. Our weakest motives were those of whose nature we were conscious. It often happened that when we thought we were experimenting on others we were really experimenting on ourselves.

Summary

This quote suggests that our strongest and most oppressive influences come from the passions and desires that we are unaware of their true source. We often deceive ourselves and attribute these motives to external factors, but in reality, they have control over us. Additionally, the quote highlights that when we believe we are studying and understanding others, we are actually studying and understanding ourselves. It serves as a reminder that self-awareness and introspection are crucial for understanding the underlying forces that drive our actions and emotions.

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