Joseph Butler
The Quote in Other Words
The rational and detached self-love of an individual would not be enough to adequately cater to their personal interests. Hence, the inclusion of appetites and passions within serves as a protective measure and additional assurance, as without them, proper attention would not be given.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote suggests that self-love alone is not enough to ensure that individuals take proper care of their own interests. Instead, our appetites and passions serve as a guard and further security to protect our private interests. This implies that our desires and emotions play a crucial role in motivating us to take action and make decisions that benefit us.
However, it is important to note that this quote also highlights the potential dangers of unchecked appetites and passions. Without proper self-control and moderation, our desires can lead us astray and cause us to act against our own best interests. Therefore, while our appetites and passions can serve as a valuable tool for protecting our private interests, it is important to exercise caution and balance in their use.