Eric Hoffer: 'The savior who wants to turn men into angels is as much a hater of human nature as the totalitarian despot who wants to turn them into puppets.'

The savior who wants to turn men into angels is as much a hater of human nature as the totalitarian despot who wants to turn them into puppets.

The quote by Eric Hoffer, 'The savior who wants to turn men into angels is as much a hater of human nature as the totalitarian despot who wants to turn them into puppets,' is a thought-provoking statement that delves into the complex nature of humanity and the dangers of extreme ideologies. At its core, the quote critiques those who seek to mold individuals, whether it be turning them into idealized beings or reducing them to mere pawns in a larger system. In essence, both approaches disregard the inherent uniqueness and autonomy of human nature.Human nature is a multifaceted concept, encompassing both positive and negative aspects. It is through this dichotomy that our individuality, aspirations, and potential for growth arise. Eric Hoffer's quote warns against extreme saviors - individuals who aim to eradicate all imperfections and transform humans into angelic creatures without flaws. This kind of savior overlooks the inherent complexity of human nature and fails to appreciate the lessons learned through trials and imperfections.Moreover, Hoffer draws a parallel between such saviors and totalitarian despots who seek to control and constrain individuals, reducing them to mere puppets. These despots house an equal disdain for human nature, viewing humans as objects to be manipulated and controlled for their own gain. They disregard the autonomy and free will present in every individual, essentially erasing the essence of human nature in favor of servitude and compliance.However, this analysis of the quote only scratches the surface of its implications. To further explore the concept highlighted by Eric Hoffer, it is intriguing to reflect upon the philosophical notion of the duality of human nature. Many philosophical teachings, such as those found in Taoism or even the works of Nietzsche, propose the coexistence of opposing qualities within every individual.Taoism posits the existence of yin and yang, representing complementary forces in the universe – light and dark, feminine and masculine. Applied to human nature, this philosophy suggests that within every person, there exists a delicate balance of contrasting qualities, both virtuous and flawed. This recognition allows for a deeper understanding and acceptance of our own complexities.Similarly, Friedrich Nietzsche's concept of the "will to power" postulates that individuals are driven by a striving for self-realization and self-assertion. This concept acknowledges the potential for growth and self-actualization inherent in every human being, regardless of their flaws or imperfections. In this light, the savior figure and the totalitarian despot can be seen as denying these innate qualities by attempting to impose their own ideals and control on others.By introducing these philosophical concepts, we gain a broader perspective on Hoffer's quote. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the inherent duality and uniqueness of human nature, as well as the dangers of extreme ideologies that seek to minimize or eradicate these qualities altogether. Both the savior longing to create angels and the totalitarian despot hell-bent on turning people into puppets overlook the precious essence of individuality, the driving force behind the richness and diversity of society.To conclude, Eric Hoffer's quote serves as a reminder that human nature should not be neglected or manipulated to fulfill an idealized vision. Instead, it calls for an appreciation of the inherent complexities and duality within each individual. By embracing our flaws and imperfections while striving for self-realization and growth, we maintain our autonomy and preserve the beautiful mosaic that is humanity itself.