Everyone knows that by far the happiest and universally enjoyable age of man is the first. What is there about babies which makes us hug and kiss and fondle them, so that even an enemy would give them help at that age?
Desiderius Erasmus’ quote reflects on the universal appeal and innocence of babies, emphasizing how they represent the happiest and most universally enjoyable stage of human life. By stating that "everyone knows that by far the happiest and universally enjoyable age of man is the first," Erasmus suggests that there is something inherently pure and charming about infants that brings joy to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
The question "What is there about babies which makes us hug and kiss and fondle them?" speaks to the deep emotional connection we feel towards them. Babies have a unique ability to evoke feelings of affection and tenderness in almost anyone. Erasmus points out that their vulnerability and innocence draw people in, and even those who may not typically show affection are compelled to care for and protect them.
Erasmus goes on to highlight the universal nature of this sentiment, suggesting that even an enemy would be moved to help a baby. This shows that the innocence and helplessness of a child can transcend conflict or rivalry, making it nearly impossible for anyone to resist the urge to offer support or care.
Ultimately, Erasmus is exploring the idea that the first years of life are marked by an innate purity and vulnerability that elicit universal love and protection. His quote celebrates the beauty of this stage in life, highlighting how babies have a unique ability to unite people through their sheer innocence and need for care.
TTnguyen trong tin
I love the idea that babies can break down barriers, even between enemies. But do you think this kind of universal affection is diminishing in today's world? With so much division and desensitization online, I wonder if that instinct to connect over the vulnerability of a child is fading. Are we losing touch with the emotional foundations that unify us across differences?
TYnguyen tran yen
This quote raises an interesting philosophical question: are we happiest when we are unaware of happiness itself? Babies don’t have conscious thoughts about joy or suffering the way adults do, yet they are often seen as the most content. Does that mean happiness is more about being than thinking? I’d love to hear perspectives on whether consciousness enhances or diminishes joy.
NHNgoc Hang
Reading this makes me think about how fleeting that phase of life is—when we're adored simply for existing. Why does society stop being so universally kind once we grow older? Shouldn't we strive to carry that same compassion forward into adulthood? It seems like we reserve unconditional love for the youngest, but couldn’t the world be better if we treated others with even a fraction of that tenderness?
MNPhim Hay Moi Ngay
There’s something deeply moving about how even enemies might show tenderness to a child. It suggests that our humanity isn’t entirely lost, no matter how hardened we become. Could it be that infants act as emotional reset buttons—reminding us of what it means to be vulnerable and pure? I’m curious whether this universal response is biological, cultural, or both. What do you think drives it?
MLNgoc minh Le
I get what Erasmus is saying, but is it really fair to claim that early childhood is the happiest time for everyone? Some babies are born into incredibly difficult circumstances—poverty, illness, neglect. How do we reconcile the romanticized view of infancy with the harsh realities many infants face? Is this nostalgia more about adult perceptions than the actual experience of the baby?