"Es mejor ser un ser humano insatisfecho que un cerdo satisfecho"

This quote is all about the idea that being a human, with all the complexities and sometimes dissatisfaction that comes with it, is still better than living a simple, contented life without higher thinking or deeper feelings. It's about valuing human experience and consciousness, even though it comes with its own set of challenges and struggles.

Now, let's dive into the context. This idea comes from John Stuart Mill, a philosopher from the 19th century. He was all about utilitarianism, which is the idea that the best action is the one that maximizes happiness. But here, he's making a distinction between different kinds of happiness. Mill argued that intellectual and moral pleasures (the stuff that makes us truly human) are superior to more base, animalistic pleasures. He's essentially saying that the kind of happiness we get from using our minds and striving for something more significant is better, even if it means we're sometimes unhappy or struggling.

Imagine you're at a crossroads in your career. One path is a high-paying job that requires little thought and offers no challenge—it’s repetitive, dull, but comfortable. The other path is a riskier job in a field you’re passionate about. It could lead to incredible fulfillment, but it also comes with hurdles and uncertainties. Choosing the second path aligns with Mill’s idea. It might be tough, and you might feel dissatisfied at times, but the richness of the experience and the growth you achieve are worth more than the easy contentment of the first path.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by embracing challenges and seeking out opportunities that push your boundaries. Don't just settle for what's comfortable. Take up that hobby that seems difficult, engage in conversations that challenge your viewpoints, or dive into learning something new and complex. The dissatisfaction you might feel as you struggle is a sign that you're growing and developing as a person.

Here's a story to bring this idea home: Think about Sarah. She’s got a secure job as an accountant, but she's always been passionate about art. Every time she visits a gallery, she feels a pang of longing. One day, she decides to take evening classes in painting. It's tough—she's got no time for herself, she's often tired, and sometimes she feels like she'll never be good at it. But over time, she starts to get better. Her paintings improve, she makes friends in the art community, and she even starts to sell her work. The satisfaction she feels from these accomplishments is deeper and more meaningful than the steady, bland contentment of her accounting job. It's not always easy, but it's profoundly fulfilling.

So next time you find yourself at a crossroads or facing a tough decision, think about the kind of satisfaction you're aiming for. Are you looking for the easy, immediate gratification, or are you willing to push through the challenges for something deeper and more meaningful? Remember, being human means embracing those ups and downs—it's what makes the journey worthwhile.