Meaning: This quote by Karl Kraus, an Austrian writer and journalist, is a thought-provoking and controversial statement that challenges traditional notions of morality and its impact on society. Kraus was known for his satirical and critical approach to societal issues, and this quote is a reflection of his skepticism towards moral values and their consequences.

In this quote, Kraus uses a metaphor comparing morality to a venereal disease, a term typically associated with sexually transmitted infections. By likening morality to a disease, Kraus suggests that it spreads and affects individuals and society in a similar way. The progression of the disease from its primary stage of virtue to its tertiary stage of syphilis reflects his cynical view of the moral decay and its consequences.

The primary stage of morality, according to Kraus, is virtue. This stage represents the initial adherence to moral principles and ethical behavior. Virtue is often associated with righteousness, integrity, and adherence to societal norms and values. However, Kraus implies that this initial stage of morality is just the beginning of a more complex and detrimental process.

The secondary stage, boredom, suggests that the adherence to virtue leads to a sense of weariness and dissatisfaction. Kraus may be suggesting that the strict adherence to moral codes and the suppression of individual desires and impulses can lead to a sense of monotony and lack of fulfillment. This interpretation aligns with Kraus's critical view of societal norms and the constraints they impose on individual freedom and expression.

The tertiary stage of morality, syphilis, is where Kraus's metaphor becomes particularly provocative. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease that can have serious and long-lasting effects on the body. By equating morality with syphilis, Kraus implies that the strict adherence to moral codes and the suppression of natural human instincts can lead to a destructive and corrupting force within society. This stage represents the decay and degeneration of moral values, leading to destructive consequences for individuals and society as a whole.

It's important to note that Kraus's use of such a provocative metaphor is intended to challenge conventional thinking and provoke critical reflection on the nature of morality and its impact on society. While some may find his comparison shocking or offensive, it serves as a vehicle for stimulating dialogue and debate about the complexities of human behavior and societal norms.

In conclusion, Karl Kraus's quote about morality as a venereal disease is a thought-provoking and controversial statement that challenges traditional notions of virtue and its consequences. Through his use of metaphor and provocative language, Kraus invites readers to critically examine the impact of moral values on individuals and society, and to consider the potential pitfalls of strict adherence to societal norms. While his views may be contentious, they serve as a catalyst for deeper reflection on the nature of morality and its role in shaping human behavior and societal dynamics.