“In the human heart jealousy is sometimes caused by love, more often by self-esteem, and most often by vanity.”François de La Rochefoucauld · Maxime · 1665 · Maxima 472
Jealousy is ignited less often by love, more often by self-esteem, and most often by vanity.
La Rochefoucauld breaks jealousy down into layers. Love can cause jealousy, but it is less common than wounded pride. Self-esteem suffers when we feel replaced, but vanity—the need to be admired—is the main driver. For instance, professional jealousy arises not because you love the job, but because a colleague receives praise you think you deserve.
Why it matters It helps us identify the true source of our jealousy and manage it more rationally.