Meaning: The quote "They wonder much to hear that gold, which in itself is so useless a thing, should be everywhere so much esteemed, that even men for whom it was made, and by whom it has its value, should yet be thought of less value than it is" is attributed to Thomas More, a 16th-century English lawyer, social philosopher, and statesman. More is best known for his book "Utopia," in which he depicts an ideal society based on principles of rationality, equality, and social justice.

In this quote, More reflects on the paradox of gold's value in society. He questions the widespread esteem for gold, a metal that is inherently useless in terms of its practical utility, yet is highly esteemed and coveted by people. More raises the point that gold, despite being a material created for the benefit of humanity, is often valued more highly than the people who use it.

The quote can be interpreted in several ways, and it touches on themes of materialism, human nature, and the nature of value. More seems to be critiquing the human tendency to place excessive value on material wealth and possessions, even when they lack inherent utility. He suggests that the obsession with gold and material wealth may lead people to overlook the true value of human life and relationships.

From a philosophical perspective, the quote can be seen as a commentary on the nature of value and the subjective perceptions that shape it. More's contemplation of the paradox of gold's value challenges the conventional understanding of worth and prompts the reader to consider the underlying reasons for the esteem placed on certain objects or concepts.

Moreover, the quote invites reflection on the societal constructs and cultural norms that contribute to the perceived value of certain commodities. It raises questions about the origins of value and the role of collective beliefs and perceptions in shaping the worth of objects and ideas.

In a broader context, More's quote can be linked to discussions about the role of material wealth in shaping social hierarchies and power dynamics. It draws attention to the disparities in how value is assigned to different aspects of human existence, highlighting the potential disconnect between material wealth and intrinsic human worth.

In conclusion, Thomas More's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the paradox of gold's value in society and raises important questions about the nature of worth, the influence of societal constructs, and the prioritization of material wealth over human value. Its enduring relevance lies in its ability to prompt contemplation and critical examination of the complex interplay between materialism, human perception, and the true sources of value in our lives.