The ruin of the human heart is self-interest, which the American merchant calls self-service. We have become a self-service populace, and all our specious comforts --the automatic elevator, the escalator, the cafeteria --are depriving us of volition and moral and physical energy.

Summary

The quote highlights the detrimental impact of self-interest and consumerism on the human heart. The author suggests that a focus on self-service and personal convenience has led to the decline of active decision-making and the erosion of moral and physical vitality. The automatic advancements and comforts we enjoy, such as elevators, escalators, and cafeterias, may seem appealing, but they come at the cost of our volition and overall well-being. The message is a cautionary one, urging us to reflect on the potential consequences of prioritizing personal convenience over personal growth and ethical choices.

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