Meaning: This quote by Denis Diderot, a prominent figure of the Enlightenment period, reflects a nuanced perspective on the concept of wickedness and the way society perceives and responds to criminal behavior. Diderot was a French philosopher, art critic, and writer, known for his contributions to the Encyclopédie, a comprehensive compilation of knowledge that aimed to promote critical thinking and challenge traditional authority. In this quote, he suggests that while society may scorn small-time criminals, it often harbors a certain fascination or respect for those who commit more significant transgressions.

Diderot's assertion that it is essential to be sublime in wickedness speaks to the idea that there is a certain grandeur or awe-inspiring quality attributed to major criminal acts. This notion challenges conventional moral judgments and invites contemplation on the complex interplay between ethics, power, and human psychology. By using the word "sublime," Diderot evokes the idea of something extraordinary, even if it is morally repugnant.

The contrast Diderot draws between the treatment of a petty thief and a great criminal serves to highlight the paradoxical nature of societal attitudes towards wrongdoing. While a petty thief may be met with disdain and contempt, a "great criminal" is often regarded with a mixture of fear, fascination, and, as Diderot suggests, a begrudging respect. This observation prompts reflection on the factors that contribute to the glorification or mythologizing of notorious figures in history, literature, and popular culture.

Diderot's perspective on wickedness and criminality aligns with the broader philosophical discourse of his time, which sought to interrogate prevailing moral and social constructs. The Enlightenment era was characterized by a spirit of intellectual inquiry and a push for individual freedom, leading thinkers like Diderot to challenge traditional norms and question the basis of moral authority. In this context, Diderot's quote can be seen as a provocative commentary on the complexities of human behavior and the moral ambivalence that often accompanies it.

The quote also raises questions about the role of power and influence in shaping perceptions of wickedness. Diderot's assertion that a kind of respect is accorded to the great criminal suggests that notoriety and the ability to exert significant impact can elevate a wrongdoer to a position of grim admiration. This phenomenon is evident in the fascination with historical figures such as pirates, gangsters, and dictators whose exploits, while reprehensible, have captured the public imagination.

Furthermore, Diderot's statement invites consideration of the cultural and psychological dynamics that contribute to the elevation of certain individuals to the status of "great criminals." The notion of infamy and the allure of rebellion or transgression have long held a particular allure in human society, and Diderot's quote taps into this enduring fascination with the darker aspects of human nature.

In conclusion, Denis Diderot's quote provides a thought-provoking commentary on the paradoxical attitudes towards wickedness and criminality. By challenging conventional moral judgments and highlighting the complexities of human perception, Diderot prompts us to examine the underlying factors that shape our responses to acts of wrongdoing. This quote serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of Enlightenment thought and its ongoing impact on our understanding of morality, power, and the human experience.