Man can find meaning in life, short and perilous as it is, only through devoting himself to society.

Share this quote

Source: Why Socialism?, 1949

About this quote

Meaning is framed here as contribution rather than private accumulation or status. The finite and vulnerable character of life makes service to other people a practical source of purpose.

When to use it

  • A retired engineer mentors students and finds renewed purpose in passing on hard-won knowledge.
  • A neighbor organizes food deliveries for people isolated during a local emergency.
  • A business owner measures success partly by whether employees and customers genuinely benefit.