This quote essentially means that in terms of morality, humans don’t view themselves as a single, unified entity (an individuum), but rather as a divided entity (a dividuum). This division can be interpreted in many ways. It could mean a division between our thoughts and actions, between our personal desires and societal expectations, or between our instinctual behaviors and our moral judgments.
In simpler terms, this quote is saying that when it comes to moral decisions, individuals often feel torn between different aspects of themselves. For example, a person might feel a conflict between their desire for personal gain and their moral obligation to help others. This inner conflict is the “division” that the quote refers to.
Applying this concept to today’s world, we can see this division playing out in many ways. For instance, in the realm of politics, people often grapple with the divide between their personal beliefs and the policies they support for the greater good. Similarly, in the business world, leaders may face a division between their desire for profit and their ethical responsibilities towards their employees and customers.
In terms of personal development, this quote could be a reminder of the importance of self-awareness and introspection. By recognizing and understanding our inner divisions, we can make more informed and balanced decisions. It encourages us to reconcile the different parts of ourselves and strive for a more harmonious, integrated sense of self. This might involve making sacrifices, compromising, or finding new ways to align our personal desires with our moral obligations.
