Quoting Demosthenes, 'For what each man wishes, that he…
“Quoting Demosthenes, 'For what each man wishes, that he also believes to be true.' I would rather make money playing a piano in a whorehouse than arguing that no cost is incurred when employees are paid in stock options instead of cash. I am not kidding.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often believe what they want, even if false; personal preferences can outweigh rational analysis.
In simple terms: We believe what we want, not what’s true.
Key Takeaway
Align decisions with evidence, not desire.
Themes
belief
desire
rationality
economics
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
financial
philosophical
When to use this quote
- investment strategy
- personal finance
- organizational policy
- negotiations
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
decision making
Questions to Reflect On
- How to detect wishful thinking?
- What tools aid objective decision‑making?
A Different Perspective
Strong desires may cloud judgment.