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"جامعه تنها تا زمانی به فرد اهمیت می‌دهد که سودآور باشد"

Simone de Beauvoir
Simone de Beauvoir Philosopher
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Quote meaning
Society tends to value individuals based on what they can contribute, particularly in terms of economic or social gain. If you look closely, you'll see that people often get celebrated for their achievements or what they bring to the table. Imagine a world where you're only as good as your last accomplishment or the profit you generate—pretty grim, right?

Historically, this mentality isn't new. Think back to the industrial age. Workers were valued for their productivity and little else. If you produced more, you were rewarded. If not, you were easily replaceable. This mindset has trickled down through the centuries, morphing with the times but keeping the core idea intact.

Let's talk about a real-life example. Consider the tech industry. Talented software developers and engineers are highly sought after, not just for their skills, but for the innovations and profits they can bring. Remember the story of an app developer who created a viral game overnight? The individual behind it became an overnight sensation. Suddenly, they were invited to speak at conferences, offered lucrative deals, and showered with praise. But if the same individual hadn’t created that game, would anyone have given them a second look? Probably not.

So, how can you apply this understanding to your own life? First, recognize that while society's valuation system might feel harsh, it’s the reality we live in. Focus on developing skills and attributes that make you indispensable. However, don’t forget your self-worth. Your value isn't solely tied to what you can produce or how profitable you are. Balance is key.

Imagine you're at a family gathering, and your cousin starts boasting about their new high-paying job. You might feel a pang of jealousy or even inadequacy. But think deeper. Are they happy? Do they feel valued beyond their paycheck? In many cases, people who chase societal approval based on profitability might find themselves lacking in genuine human connections and personal happiness.

Here's a relatable story. My friend Jane was obsessed with climbing the corporate ladder. She worked late into the night, missed family events, and was always on edge. Sure, she got the promotions and the praise. But one evening over coffee, she confessed she felt like a cog in a machine—utterly replaceable and disconnected. It hit her hard when she realized that her value at work was tied strictly to her performance, not who she was as a person.

To avoid falling into this trap, cultivate relationships and hobbies that bring joy and satisfaction beyond work or societal approval. Volunteer, join a club, or just spend more time with loved ones. These activities remind you that your worth isn't just about what you can do, but who you are.

In summary, while society tends to value individuals based on profitability, remember that your true worth extends far beyond that. Focus on what makes you unique, invest in personal relationships, and never lose sight of your intrinsic value. And next time you hear about someone else's success, think about the whole picture—not just the glossy highlights.
Related tags
Capitalism Economics Individual Personal worth Profit Self-interest Social dynamics Society Utilitarianism Value
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