Very great personages are not likely to form very just…
“Very great personages are not likely to form very just estimates either of others or of themselves; their knowledge of themselves is obscured by the flattery of others; their knowledge of others is equally clouded by circumstances peculiar to themselves. For in the presence of the great, the modest are sure to suffer from too much diffidence, and the confident from too much display.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Great people often misjudge themselves and others, clouded by flattery and personal bias, while modest individuals suffer from low confidence and the confident over‑display.
In simple terms: Bias distorts self‑ and others‑assessment; modesty and confidence can be extremes.
Key Takeaway
Seek balanced self‑knowledge.
Themes
bias
self‑awareness
modesty
confidence
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- personal relationships
- team dynamics
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Psychology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you discern genuine feedback?
- What practices improve accurate self‑assessment?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on others’ opinions can hinder growth.