Quote by H. L. Mencken

It is not materialism that is the chief curse of the world, as pastors teach, but idealism. Men get into trouble by taking their visions and hallucinations too seriously.

It is not materialism that is the chief curse of the world,

Summary

This quote suggests that the real issue causing problems in the world is not materialism, as pastors often emphasize, but rather idealism. It argues that individuals face difficulties when they start treating their imaginative visions and unrealistic ideas too seriously. In other words, being excessively driven by abstract ideals can lead to negative consequences. This quote criticizes the excessive importance placed on idealism, arguing that it hinders practicality and can cause strife in the world.

Topics

Men

By H. L. Mencken

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