It is always the case with the best work, that it is…
“It is always the case with the best work, that it is misrepresented, and disparaged at first, for it takes a curiously long time for new ideas to become current, and the older men who ought to be capable of taking them in freely, will not do so through prejudice.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
New ideas often face resistance and criticism before acceptance, especially from established figures.
In simple terms: New ideas are often rejected at first.
Key Takeaway
Expect and tolerate early criticism.
Themes
innovation
prejudice
generational gaps
Mood
frustrated
optimistic
Type
cautionary
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic publishing
- business leadership
- policy reform
- public discourse
Key Concepts
social change
cognitive bias
diffusion of innovation
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we foster openness to novel ideas?
- What mechanisms reduce bias against new concepts?
A Different Perspective
Older generations may resist change due to entrenched interests.