This quote suggests that men often choose immediate discomfort over temporary pleasure, driven by the hope of greater satisfaction in the future. This decision, even when based on flawed expectations, reinforces the notion that individuals prioritize long-term rewards over short-term gains. The author highlights that the pursuit of such future pleasure is a common human tendency, regardless of the accuracy of one's judgments.

The author also challenges the perception that pleasures are solely sensory experiences. He argues that the motivations behind profound sacrifices, like dying for one's country, stem from a deeper sense of fulfillment or enjoyment, similar to mundane choices. By equating noble acts with simpler pleasures, the quote emphasizes the complexity of human desires and the underlying factors that drive our decisions, transcending mere physical sensations.