If there were in the world today any large number of people who desired their own happiness more than they des... — Bertrand Russell

If there were in the world today any large number of people who desired their own happiness more than they desired the unhappiness of others, we could have paradise in a few years.

Author: Bertrand Russell

Insight: We're often told to chase our dreams, but Russell's real insight is darker: most conflict stays alive because people get more juice from seeing enemies lose than from winning themselves. Your neighbor's misery genuinely feels better than your own success. That's the trap we can't seem to escape.

Source: Mortals and Others, American Essays 1931-1935, p. 186, 1975

/Quotes

If there were in the world today any large number of people who desired their own happiness more than they desired the unhappiness of others, we could have paradise in a few years.

Bertrand RussellMortals and Others, American Essays 1931-1935, p. 186, 1975

Insight

We're often told to chase our dreams, but Russell's real insight is darker: most conflict stays alive because people get more juice from seeing enemies lose than from winning themselves. Your neighbor's misery genuinely feels better than your own success. That's the trap we can't seem to escape.

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Bertrand Russell

Bertrand Russell (1872–1970) was a British philosopher, mathematician, and prominent social critic. Known for his work in logic, philosophy of mathematics, and advocacy for peace and human rights, Russell was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 for his significant contributions to literature and for his fearless efforts to confront the pressing issues of his time.

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