A father would do well, as his son grows up, and is…
“A father would do well, as his son grows up, and is capable of it, to talk familiarly with him; nay, ask his advice, and consult with him about those things wherein he has any knowledge or understanding. By this, the father will gain two things, both of great moment. The sooner you treat him as a man, the sooner he will begin to be one; and if you admit him into serious discourses sometimes with you, you will insensibly raise his mind above the usual amusements of youth, and those trifling occupations which it is commonly wasted in.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Treating a son as an adult and involving him in serious matters fosters his maturity and intellectual growth.
In simple terms: Respecting youth as adults builds maturity.
Key Takeaway
Give youth responsibility to accelerate growth.
Themes
education
parenting
respect
Mood
respectful
hopeful
Type
advisory
inspirational
When to use this quote
- family discussions
- mentoring
- decision making
Key Concepts
developmental psychology
philosophy of education
Questions to Reflect On
- When did you first treat a child as an adult?
- What responsibilities can you share with younger people?