"在自然状态中，利润是衡量正义的标准"

In its essence, the quote suggests that in a natural or primal setting, where there are no laws or societal norms, the concept of right and wrong is often determined by what is most beneficial or profitable to an individual. It’s a rather raw and unfiltered view of human behavior, implying that without societal constraints, people might prioritize their own gain above all else.

Historically, this idea ties back to political theorists like Thomas Hobbes, who had a pretty grim view of human nature. He argued that in the state of nature—essentially life without government or laws—people would act in their own self-interest, leading to a "war of all against all." It's a perspective that suggests humans are fundamentally self-serving, and that our concepts of morality are often shaped, or perhaps even created, by the structures and agreements we live under.

Let’s bring this to life with a real-world example. Imagine you're stranded on a deserted island with a group of people. Resources are scarce—food, water, shelter. Now, in this state of nature, what happens? If we go by the quote, people might start hoarding food, setting traps to guard their water sources, and even sabotaging others to ensure their survival. Here, profit—having more resources than others—becomes a measure of right. If you can secure the most coconuts or catch the most fish, you’re 'right' because it means you’re more likely to survive.

So how do we apply this wisdom in our everyday lives, which (thankfully) aren't spent on deserted islands? First, acknowledge that while society has rules to prevent the chaos of the state of nature, elements of this self-serving behavior still exist. Recognizing this can make you more savvy in business negotiations, workplace politics, or even personal relationships. Understanding that people might act out of self-interest allows you to navigate situations with a clearer head. However, it’s also important to balance this with empathy and cooperation, which are crucial for long-term success and happiness.

Think about a time when you were in a competitive situation—maybe at work, vying for a promotion. It’s natural to want that promotion for yourself. You might work harder, showcase your achievements more, and strategically align with influential colleagues. Here, ‘profit’—in the form of career advancement—drives your actions. But imagine if everyone around you did the same without any sense of teamwork or ethics. It could quickly turn toxic.

So, what's the takeaway? Recognize and understand the inherent self-interest in people but strive to rise above it. Use this awareness not to justify selfish actions, but to build strategies that blend personal gain with collective benefit. This balance is what sets thriving, ethical environments apart from mere survival of the fittest scenarios.

Imagine explaining this to a friend over coffee. You might say, “Hey, remember the last project we worked on? Everyone wanted to lead, but it got chaotic until we figured out how to share responsibilities. It's kinda like that quote, right? Without some agreed rules and a bit of teamwork, everyone's just out for themselves—and that can get messy fast.”

In the end, while the raw state of nature suggests profit equals right, our challenge is to create environments where collaboration and mutual benefit redefine what’s right. This doesn’t mean ignoring self-interest, but rather channeling it in ways that build rather than destroy.