Faustian spirit

The Faustian spirit refers to a mindset characterized by ambitious pursuit of knowledge, power, or success—often at any moral or ethical cost. It derives from the legend of Faust, a scholar who makes a pact with the devil for unlimited knowledge and worldly pleasures. In a broader sense, it symbolizes relentless striving, sometimes leading individuals or societies to sacrifice integrity or long-term well-being in exchange for immediate gains. This spirit reflects both human aspiration and the potential moral dilemmas associated with overly ambitious pursuits.