Quote by Bertrand Russell
Next to enjoying ourselves, the next greatest pleasure consists in preventing others from enjoying themselves, or, more generally, in the acquisition of power.
Summary
This quote by Mark Twain speaks to the human tendency to derive pleasure from exerting control over others or preventing their enjoyment. It portrays a negative aspect of human nature that finds gratification in power acquisition, be it through restricting others' joy or establishing dominance. The quote highlights the gratification derived from both the act of controlling and the actual capture of power, suggesting that these actions can sometimes take precedence over personal happiness and well-being.