Meaning: The quote "The lust of avarice as so totally seized upon mankind that their wealth seems rather to possess them than they possess their wealth" by Pliny the Elder, is a thought-provoking reflection on the pervasive influence of greed and materialism in human society. Gaius Plinius Secundus, commonly known as Pliny the Elder, was a Roman author, naturalist, and philosopher who lived in the 1st century AD. He is best known for his encyclopedic work "Naturalis Historia" (Natural History), which encompassed a wide range of knowledge about the natural world, geography, anthropology, and more. However, Pliny the Elder also shared his perspectives on human behavior and societal issues, as reflected in the aforementioned quote.

The quote encapsulates the idea that the relentless pursuit of wealth has become so ingrained in human nature that individuals are no longer in control of their own possessions. Instead, the desire for material gain and accumulation of wealth has become all-consuming, dictating people's actions and priorities. The use of the term "lust of avarice" emphasizes the insatiable and often irrational desire for wealth, suggesting that it has reached a point of excess and imbalance in society.

Pliny the Elder's observation resonates across different historical periods and cultures, as the human tendency towards avarice and material possession has been a recurring theme throughout history. The quote serves as a poignant commentary on the potential pitfalls of prioritizing material wealth above all else, highlighting the potential for individuals to become enslaved by their own pursuit of riches.

In contemporary society, the quotation remains relevant as it draws attention to the pervasive influence of consumerism, materialism, and the relentless pursuit of financial success. The idea that "wealth seems rather to possess them than they possess their wealth" underscores the notion that individuals may become so consumed by the pursuit of wealth that their values, relationships, and overall well-being are overshadowed by their preoccupation with material possessions.

From a psychological perspective, the quote alludes to the concept of materialism as a potential source of discontent and dissatisfaction. Research in psychology has shown that an excessive focus on material wealth and possessions is often associated with lower levels of well-being, as individuals may experience a sense of emptiness or lack of fulfillment despite their material success. Pliny the Elder's observation thus serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential psychological and emotional consequences of allowing the pursuit of wealth to overshadow other aspects of life.

Furthermore, the quote also raises questions about the nature of true ownership and control. When wealth becomes the primary focus, individuals may find themselves in a position where their possessions exert a controlling influence over their lives, rather than serving as a source of security and freedom. The quote encourages reflection on the distinction between genuine ownership and the illusion of possession, highlighting the potential for materialism to lead individuals into a state of dependency on their wealth.

In conclusion, Pliny the Elder's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the pervasive influence of avarice and materialism in human society. By highlighting the potential for wealth to possess individuals rather than the other way around, the quote serves as a timeless reminder of the dangers of allowing the pursuit of material gain to overshadow other aspects of life. It prompts reflection on the nature of true ownership, the psychological consequences of materialism, and the enduring relevance of these themes in contemporary society.