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It is a safe bet that every publicly held idea, every…

“It is a safe bet that every publicly held idea, every received convention, is foolishness, for it has suited the majority.” quote by Chamfort Sébastien-Roch-Ni 1740?-1794
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““It is a safe bet that every publicly held idea, every received convention, is foolishness, for it has suited the majority.””

Chamfort Sébastien-Roch-Ni 1740?-1794

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Most accepted ideas are foolish because they cater to the majority rather than truth.

In simple terms: Popular ideas often lack wisdom.

Key Takeaway

Question consensus and seek truth.

Themes

conformity wisdom critical thinking society truth

Mood

skeptical inquisitive

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • academic research
  • policy analysis
  • media literacy

Key Concepts

philosophy social psychology skepticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does consensus reflect truth?
  • How to identify wise ideas amid popular ones?
A Different Perspective

Majority opinion can be correct in some contexts.

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