The quote, "As for Doing-good, that is one of the professions which are full," suggests that the act of doing good deeds, or altruism, is often seen as a profession in itself, one that is already crowded or oversaturated. The idea here is that many people are already engaged in doing good, either through their jobs or as volunteers.
This quote could be interpreted in several ways. One perspective is that Thoreau is pointing out the irony in how society often treats doing good as a job rather than as an integral part of human nature. It suggests that doing good has become a sort of industry, with philanthropy and charity being structured and organized like any other profession.
Another interpretation could be that Thoreau is challenging the notion of doing good as a profession. He could be suggesting that doing good should not be seen as a job that only a few can or should do, but rather as a responsibility that everyone shares.
In today’s world, this idea could be applied in various ways. For instance, in the context of social responsibility, corporations and individuals alike are often encouraged to "do good" not just for the sake of public image, but as an inherent part of their operations or lifestyle. This could mean implementing sustainable practices, supporting local communities, or advocating for social justice.
In terms of personal development, this quote might inspire us to integrate doing good into our daily lives, rather than seeing it as a separate task or responsibility. This could involve small acts of kindness, volunteering in our free time, or using our skills and resources to support causes we care about. It encourages us to see doing good not as a profession, but as a fundamental part of being human.
