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A fig for my opinion! If you fall in love with Mr. Osmond…

“A fig for my opinion! If you fall in love with Mr. Osmond what will you care for that?" "Not much, probably. But meanwhile it has a certain importance. The more information one has about one's dangers the better." "I don't agree to that—it may make them dangers. We know too much about people in…” quote by Henry James
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““A fig for my opinion! If you fall in love with Mr. Osmond what will you care for that?" "Not much, probably. But meanwhile it has a certain importance. The more information one has about one's dangers the better." "I don't agree to that—it may make them dangers. We know too much about people in these days; we hear too much. Our ears, our minds, our mouths, are stuffed with personalities. Don't mind anything any one tells you about any one else. Judge everyone and everything for yourself.””

Henry James

About This Quote

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

The quote warns against over‑reliance on others' opinions and stresses personal judgment over gossip.

In simple terms: Trust yourself, not rumors.

Key Takeaway

Think critically, form your own judgments.

Themes

skepticism individualism information overload

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • social media consumption
  • workplace rumors
  • political discourse
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

critical thinking media literacy personal autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal judgment with useful advice?
  • When might trusting others be beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on self‑reliance can ignore valuable external insights.

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