Meaning: The quote "To attempt the destruction of our passions is the height of folly. What a noble aim is that of the zealot who tortures himself like a madman in order to desire nothing, love nothing, feel nothing, and who, if he succeeded, would end up a complete monster!" by Denis Diderot, offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of human passions and the futility of attempting to eradicate them. This quote reflects Diderot's philosophical views on the complexities of human emotions and the inherent folly in seeking to extinguish them.

Denis Diderot was an influential French philosopher, art critic, and writer during the Enlightenment period. His works often explored the intricacies of human nature, society, and the pursuit of knowledge. In this quote, Diderot critiques the notion of suppressing one's passions and emotions, arguing that such an endeavor is ultimately misguided and unattainable.

The quote begins with a bold assertion that attempting to destroy our passions is the pinnacle of foolishness. Diderot suggests that our passions, which encompass a wide range of emotions and desires, are an inherent part of being human. By characterizing the destruction of passions as folly, he challenges the idea that one can or should rid themselves of these fundamental aspects of their humanity.

Diderot then introduces the concept of a zealot, someone who fervently devotes themselves to a cause or belief. He describes the zealot as torturing himself like a madman in pursuit of a noble aim: to desire nothing, love nothing, and feel nothing. This description underscores the extreme lengths to which some individuals may go in their quest to suppress their passions. The zealot's self-imposed suffering reflects the misguided belief that by eliminating all emotional attachments and desires, one can achieve a state of purity or enlightenment.

The quote concludes with a striking statement about the potential outcome of the zealot's endeavor. Diderot suggests that if the zealot were to succeed in eradicating all desires and emotions, they would ultimately become a "complete monster." This powerful imagery conveys the idea that the absence of passions and emotions would dehumanize an individual, rendering them devoid of empathy, compassion, and humanity itself. Diderot's use of the term "monster" serves as a stark warning against the dangers of suppressing one's essential human nature in the pursuit of an unattainable ideal.

In essence, Diderot's quote challenges the notion that the eradication of passions is a noble or desirable goal. Instead, he advocates for a more balanced and nuanced approach to understanding and embracing our emotions and desires. By highlighting the folly of seeking to become emotionless and passionless, he invites readers to reconsider the value of their own passions and the role they play in shaping their humanity.

Overall, Denis Diderot's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent complexity and significance of human passions. It encourages contemplation on the nature of our emotions and the consequences of attempting to suppress or eliminate them. Diderot's insightful perspective continues to resonate with readers, prompting thoughtful exploration of the intricate interplay between our passions and our humanity.