Meaning: This quote by Samuel Alexander, a renowned philosopher, delves into the concept of desire and its impact on the human personality. It suggests that desire has the power to engulf an individual, gradually influencing not only their sensory impulses but also their idealistic inclinations. The imagery of the rising tide and the analogy of appetite invading the personality vividly capture the all-encompassing nature of desire and its ability to permeate various aspects of human existence.

Desire is a fundamental aspect of human nature, driving individuals to pursue goals, fulfill needs, and seek satisfaction. It operates on both a physical and psychological level, prompting individuals to engage in activities that bring pleasure or fulfillment. Alexander's quote alludes to the pervasive nature of desire, emphasizing its ability to infiltrate not only the sensory aspects of the self but also the idealistic components. This suggests that desire has the capacity to shape not only immediate impulses but also long-term aspirations and values.

The metaphor of the rising tide evokes the gradual and relentless nature of desire's influence. Much like the inexorable advance of the tide, desire can steadily encroach upon an individual's consciousness, gaining strength and momentum as it does so. This depiction implies that desire is not easily quelled or controlled, and its impact on the individual can be profound and far-reaching.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the multidimensional nature of desire, suggesting that it appeals to both sensory and idealistic facets of the self. While sensory desires may encompass basic physical needs and pleasures, idealistic desires involve aspirations, dreams, and the pursuit of higher ideals. By acknowledging the appeal of desire to these diverse aspects of the self, Alexander underscores the complexity of human motivation and the intricate interplay between instinctual urges and aspirational drives.

In philosophical and psychological discourse, desire has been a subject of extensive inquiry. From ancient philosophical traditions to modern psychological theories, scholars have sought to understand the nature of desire, its origins, and its implications for human behavior and well-being. Alexander's quote adds to this discourse by emphasizing the pervasive and transformative influence of desire on the individual's personality.

From a philosophical perspective, the quote invites contemplation on the ethical and existential dimensions of desire. How does the relentless rise of desire intersect with questions of moral agency, self-control, and the pursuit of the good life? How do individual desires interact with societal norms, cultural values, and ethical principles? These are complex and profound inquiries that lie at the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and ethics.

In conclusion, Samuel Alexander's quote encapsulates the profound influence of desire on the human personality, portraying it as a force that permeates both sensory impulses and idealistic inclinations. Through the imagery of the rising tide and the appeal to multiple facets of the self, the quote evokes the all-encompassing and transformative nature of desire. It underscores the complexity of human motivation and invites contemplation on the ethical and existential implications of desire. In doing so, the quote contributes to the rich tapestry of philosophical inquiry into the nature of desire and its impact on human existence.