That which is common to the greatest number has the least care bestowed upon it
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The quote suggests a profound observation about human behavior and societal priorities. It implies that things or aspects of life that are widespread or shared by many people tend to receive less attention, care, or concern compared to those that are rare or unique. This phenomenon can be seen across various domains of life, from public policy to personal relationships.
At its core, the quote highlights a tendency in human psychology where the urgency or value assigned to something diminishes as it becomes more ubiquitous. This can be explained by several factors. Firstly, familiarity often breeds complacency; when something is common, people may assume it requires less maintenance or attention because it is widely available or experienced. This mindset can lead to neglect or a lack of proactive efforts to improve or preserve common goods, whether they are physical resources, social norms, or communal spaces.
Furthermore, the quote touches on the concept of attention economy—where scarce resources like time and focus are allocated based on perceived rarity or urgency. In a world inundated with information and stimuli, individuals and societies often prioritize what is perceived as rare or exceptional. As a result, common aspects of life may be overshadowed or taken for granted, receiving only the minimal care necessary to sustain their basic functionality.
From a societal standpoint, this phenomenon can manifest in policy decisions and resource allocation. Issues affecting large segments of the population may receive less funding or legislative attention compared to niche concerns or crises that capture public imagination or sympathy. Similarly, in interpersonal relationships, common courtesies or routine interactions may be overlooked or undervalued, leading to misunderstandings or feelings of neglect.
In conclusion, the quote invites reflection on how we perceive and prioritize the common aspects of life. It serves as a reminder to reassess our attitudes and actions towards what is widespread and shared, recognizing the importance of giving adequate care and attention to these elements that form the fabric of our collective existence. By doing so, we can foster a more balanced and sustainable approach to managing both our personal lives and our societal responsibilities.
Who said the quote?
The quote "That which is common to the greatest number has the least care bestowed upon it" is often attributed to Aristotle (Bio / Quotes). Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest thinkers in history.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
One historical example that illustrates the quote "That which is common to the greatest number has the least care bestowed upon it" can be found in the management of public infrastructure in ancient Rome. The Roman Empire, renowned for its sophisticated infrastructure, constructed extensive networks of roads, aqueducts, and sewage systems to serve its vast population.
However, the maintenance of these public works often suffered due to their ubiquity. For instance, the Cloaca Maxima, Rome's great sewer system, was crucial for the city's sanitation and overall health. Despite its importance, the sewer system was prone to neglect and damage because it was considered a common utility—something that everyone relied on but few directly managed or cared for. The large-scale maintenance efforts were often inconsistent, and repair works were typically initiated only when significant problems arose, rather than through regular, preventative care.
This neglect of something so essential and widespread highlights the quote's message. When something is used by everyone and is taken for granted, like the public sewer system, it often receives less individual attention and care, resulting in a higher likelihood of deterioration and inefficiency. The Roman approach to infrastructure maintenance reflects a broader tendency to overlook or undervalue what is universally relied upon, which is a central theme of the quote.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In modern times, the quote can be applied to the way we approach environmental conservation. Take, for example, the issue of plastic pollution. Plastic is a material that is ubiquitous in our daily lives—used in everything from packaging and household goods to clothing and electronics. Because plastic is so common and its convenience is deeply ingrained in consumer culture, there is often a lack of collective care and responsibility towards its environmental impact.
Many people may not think about the environmental cost of plastic packaging when they purchase products. It is only when there is a visible crisis, like a massive oceanic garbage patch or a significant increase in wildlife affected by plastic pollution, that there is a surge in concern and action. However, the damage has already been done, and the problem persists due to the ongoing, widespread use of plastics with insufficient emphasis on sustainable practices.
The quote underscores the importance of proactive and mindful care for things that are pervasive and seemingly "common." By recognizing that the abundance and widespread use of a material or resource can lead to its undervaluation, individuals and societies can take steps to ensure that even the most commonly used elements—whether they be public utilities or environmental resources—are maintained and managed with the attention and care they deserve. For instance, adopting reusable materials, supporting policies for waste reduction, and promoting recycling can all contribute to addressing the issues that arise from the neglect of common goods.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
