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A clever child brought up with a foolish one can itself…

“A clever child brought up with a foolish one can itself become foolish. Man is so perfectible and corruptible he can become a fool through good sense.” quote by Georg C. Lichtenberg
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“A clever child brought up with a foolish one can itself become foolish. Man is so perfectible and corruptible he can become a fool through good sense.”

Georg C. Lichtenberg

About This Quote

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

Bad influences can corrupt even the wise; good sense may still lead to folly.

In simple terms: Even wise can become foolish.

Key Takeaway

Guard against corrupting influences.

Themes

corruption human nature wisdom folly

Mood

cautionary reflective philosophical

Type

aphorism ethical wisdom

When to use this quote

  • education
  • leadership
  • policy making

Key Concepts

ethical decay social influence critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you protect your judgment?
  • What role does environment play in wisdom?
A Different Perspective

Good sense alone may not prevent error.

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