Voltaire
The Quote in Other Words
The amphitheaters, which were the greatest architectural achievements of the ancient Romans, were constructed specifically for the purpose of hosting fights between wild animals.
Explanation of the Quote
The quote highlights the paradoxical nature of human behavior. The ancient Romans, who were known for their advanced civilization and cultural achievements, built their greatest architectural masterpieces for the sole purpose of entertaining themselves with the spectacle of wild beasts fighting each other. This raises the question of what drives humans to create such grand structures for such base purposes.
One possible explanation is that humans have an innate desire for entertainment and spectacle, which can be satisfied through various means, including the construction of grand amphitheaters. Another explanation is that humans have a tendency to indulge in violence and aggression, which can be channeled into more socially acceptable forms, such as sports or entertainment.
Regardless of the underlying motivations, the quote serves as a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of human behavior, and the need to constantly question and reflect on our actions and values.