All ambitions are lawful except those which climb upward on the miseries or credulities of mankind

All ambitions are lawful except those which climb upward on the miseries or credulities of mankind

Joseph Conrad, a renowned novelist and author of works such as "Heart of Darkness" and "Lord Jim," was known for his exploration of the human psyche and the darker aspects of human nature. In his writing, Conrad often delved into the complexities of ambition and the moral implications of pursuing one's desires at the expense of others. The quote, "All ambitions are lawful except those which climb upward on the miseries or credulities of mankind," reflects Conrad's belief that ambition should not be achieved through exploiting the vulnerabilities or weaknesses of others.

Conrad's own life and experiences as a sailor and traveler greatly influenced his writing, and he often depicted characters who were driven by ambition to achieve their goals, sometimes at great cost to themselves and those around them. In "Heart of Darkness," for example, the character of Kurtz is consumed by his ambition to acquire ivory and power in the African wilderness, leading him to commit unspeakable acts of violence and exploitation. Conrad uses Kurtz as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence it can have on the human soul.

Conrad's quote can be interpreted as a warning against the pursuit of ambition at the expense of others, particularly through manipulation or deception. Ambition, when driven by a desire for personal gain or power, can lead individuals to exploit the vulnerabilities and credulities of others for their own benefit. This can result in the suffering and misery of those who are taken advantage of, as well as the erosion of moral values and ethical principles.