Meaning: This quote by the philosopher George Santayana reflects on the relationship between the common man and his philosophical beliefs. Santayana suggests that the common man's philosophy is like an old wife - familiar, perhaps unexciting, yet integral to his existence. It is a metaphor that captures the enduring, habitual, and sometimes unexamined nature of the beliefs and ideas that individuals hold. At the same time, Santayana acknowledges that the common man is defensive of his philosophy, even when others criticize or question it.

George Santayana was a Spanish-born American philosopher, essayist, and novelist. He is known for his contributions to a wide range of philosophical fields, including aesthetics, ethics, epistemology, and the philosophy of religion. Santayana's work often reflected a deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of human thought and belief systems.

In this quote, Santayana delves into the concept of "the philosophy of the common man." The common man represents the average person, often characterized by their everyday concerns, practicality, and lack of extensive philosophical training or deep contemplation of abstract ideas. Santayana's use of "old wife" as a metaphor for the common man's philosophy conjures an image of something familiar, enduring, and perhaps unexciting. This suggests that the common man's philosophy may be traditional, handed down through generations, and deeply ingrained in his way of thinking.

The phrase "gives him no pleasure" indicates that the common man's philosophy may not necessarily bring him intellectual or emotional satisfaction. It may be a set of beliefs and values that he holds out of habit or necessity rather than genuine enjoyment or fulfillment. However, the following statement, "yet he cannot live without her," emphasizes the indispensable nature of these philosophical beliefs to the common man's existence. Despite not deriving pleasure from his philosophy, the common man depends on it for his sense of identity, purpose, and understanding of the world.

The quote continues with the assertion that the common man "resents any aspersions that strangers may cast on her character." This highlights the defensive nature of the common man when it comes to his philosophical beliefs. He is protective of his worldview and reacts negatively to any criticism or doubt cast upon it by others. Santayana's choice of words, such as "aspersions" and "strangers," suggests that the common man views external challenges to his philosophy as unwarranted and unwelcome intrusions.

Santayana's observation raises questions about the nature of belief systems and the psychological attachment that individuals have to their philosophical frameworks. The common man's adherence to his philosophy, despite its lack of immediate pleasure, speaks to the deep-seated and often unquestioned nature of these beliefs. It also prompts consideration of the role of tradition, community, and personal identity in shaping an individual's philosophical outlook.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the tension between the familiar and the critical. While the common man's philosophy may be likened to an old wife, suggesting comfort and familiarity, the resentment towards external critiques implies a sensitivity to the integrity and legitimacy of his beliefs. This tension reflects a broader human tendency to cling to familiar ideas while simultaneously feeling threatened by challenges to those ideas.

In conclusion, George Santayana's quote offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between the common man and his philosophical beliefs. It prompts reflection on the enduring, habitual nature of these beliefs, as well as the defensive stance often taken when they are questioned. Santayana's insight into the common man's philosophical mindset invites deeper consideration of the complex interplay between tradition, identity, and the human attachment to familiar ideas.