In "The Lord of Opium" by Nancy Farmer, there is a reflection on human nature, highlighting the tendencies toward greed and foolishness. The quote "humans are endlessly stupid and greedy" captures this cynical view, suggesting that despite advancements and knowledge, humans often act selfishly and irrationally. The novel explores how these traits influence individual actions and societal structures in a dystopian world.

This perspective emphasizes the persistent flaws in human behavior, such as greed that drives exploitation and foolishness that leads to poor decision-making. The story demonstrates how these traits sustain cycles of conflict and suffering, and challenges readers to consider the importance of awareness and transformation amid these enduring human weaknesses.