It would truly be a fine thing if men suffered themselves…
“It would truly be a fine thing if men suffered themselves to be guided by reason, that they should acquiesce in the true remonstrances addressed to them by the writings of the learned and the advice of friends. But the greater part are so disposed that the words which enter by one ear do incontinently go out of the other, and begin again by following the custom. The best teacher one can have is necessity.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Reason should guide people, yet most ignore wise counsel, following habit; necessity becomes the harshest teacher.
In simple terms: People ignore reason, learning only from hard need.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate habit to avoid harsh lessons.
Themes
reason
habit
learning
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- education
- policy making
- leadership
Key Concepts
human nature
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- What habits block rational thinking?
- How can we make wise counsel more compelling?
A Different Perspective
Reason can be overridden by emotion and tradition.