Stendhal: 'Prudery is a kind of avarice, the worst of all.'

Prudery is a kind of avarice, the worst of all.

The quote by Stendhal, "Prudery is a kind of avarice, the worst of all," reflects upon the connection between prudishness and avarice, and the negative implications of both. Prudery refers to a strict adherence to moral codes and a reluctance to engage in anything deemed immoral or sinful. Avarice, on the other hand, is the extreme desire for wealth or possessions. In a straightforward interpretation, Stendhal suggests that prudishness mimics the greed of avarice, and perhaps even surpasses it in its detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole.At first glance, the quote may seem puzzling. How can prudery, a characteristic associated with restraint and adherence to moral codes, be comparable to avarice, the insatiable desire for wealth and possessions? Yet, upon further contemplation, one can discern the underlying connection between the two.Both prudery and avarice stem from a sense of scarcity, albeit in different domains. Prudish individuals fear a scarcity of morality and propriety, emphasizing the need to restrict certain behaviors with rigid codes. Conversely, those consumed by avarice perceive scarcity in wealth and possessions, believing that acquiring more is the key to personal happiness and security. The parallel between the two lies in the motivation of holding onto something—whether it be morals or possessions—with an intense, unyielding grip.While prudishness may assume a moral high ground, Stendhal's quote implies that it can be just as detrimental as avarice, if not worse. Both tendencies limit an individual's experiences and hinder personal growth. Prudishness restricts exploration and self-discovery, preventing individuals from fully understanding and embracing their own desires and inclinations. Similarly, avarice engulfs individuals in a perpetual quest for wealth, preventing them from finding contentment and fulfillment in simple pleasures or meaningful relationships.To further deepen the discussion, let us introduce the philosophical concept of "moral pragmatism" as a counterpoint to prudery and avarice. Moral pragmatism encourages individuals to develop a flexible and adaptable approach to morality, recognizing that there are diverse interpretations of what is morally right or wrong. Rather than rigidly adhering to a set of predefined rules, moral pragmatism urges individuals to pragmatically navigate moral complexities through a nuanced examination of context and consequences.By embracing moral pragmatism, individuals can escape the confines of prudery and avarice. This philosophical concept encourages individuals to focus on the broader implications of their actions rather than being bound by strict, unyielding codes. It promotes a mindset that values personal growth, curiosity, and the pursuit of genuine happiness.In contrast to prudishness and avarice, moral pragmatism allows individuals to engage in a blossoming understanding of themselves and the world around them. It encourages exploration, granting individuals the freedom to act according to their own sense of authenticity while considering the potential consequences of their choices. This concept opens up the possibility for personal growth, empathy, and a deeper connection with others and with life itself.In conclusion, Stendhal's quote sheds light on the negative consequences of prudery by comparing it to the insatiable desire for wealth and possessions, or avarice. Both tendencies limit personal growth, restrict experiences, and hinder genuine happiness. To alleviate these detrimental effects, the philosophical concept of moral pragmatism is introduced as an alternative, promoting flexibility, personal growth, and a broader understanding of morality. In embracing moral pragmatism, individuals can transcend the confines of prudery and avarice, allowing for a more fulfilling and authentic life.