Certainly great persons had need to borrow other men's…
“Certainly great persons had need to borrow other men's opinions to think themselves happy; for if they judge by their own feeling, they cannot find it: but if they think with themselves what other men think of them, and that other men would fain be as they are, then they are happy as it were by report, when, perhaps, they find the contrary within.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People seek happiness by relying on others' opinions rather than their own feelings, but true happiness requires self‑reflection and authenticity.
In simple terms: Happiness comes from honest self‑assessment, not just others' views.
Key Takeaway
Seek inner truth, not just external validation.
Themes
happiness
self‑knowledge
authenticity
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- relationship counseling
- career choices
- self‑esteem building
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish your own values from others' expectations?
- What steps can you take to trust your own judgment?
A Different Perspective
Relying on others can lead to conformity and loss of personal agency.