Quote by William James
Fatalism, whose solving word in all crises of behavior is All striving is vain, will never reign supreme, for the impulse to take life strivingly is indestructible in the race. Moral creeds which speak to that impulse will be widely successful in spite of inconsistency, vagueness, and shadowy determination of expectancy. Man needs a rule for his will, and will invent one if one be not given him.
Summary
This quote highlights the inherent human need for purpose and determination. It suggests that fatalism, the belief that all efforts are ultimately futile, cannot dominate because mankind possesses an unshakeable instinct to strive and seek meaning in life. Even if moral principles are vague or inconsistent, as long as they speak to this inner impulse to live purposefully, they will find widespread acceptance. The quote also implies that if humans do not have a clear rule or guideline for their will, they will create one for themselves in order to navigate through life.
Topics
Freedom
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