For as in nothing is a gentleman better to be discerned…
““For as in nothing is a gentleman better to be discerned from a vulgar person, so in nothing is a gentle nation (such nations have been) better to be discerned from a mob, than in this, - that their feelings are constant and just, results of due contemplation, and of equal thought. You can talk a mob into anything; its feelings may be - usually are - on a whole, generous and right; but it has no foundation for them, no hold of them; you may tease or tickle it into any, at your pleasure; it thinks by infection, for the most part, catching an opinion like a cold, and there is nothing so little that it will not roar itself wild about, when the fit is on; nothing so great but it will forget in an hour, when the fit is past.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A refined individual or nation should be distinguished from the masses, whose opinions are fleeting and easily swayed.
In simple terms: Gentle people differ from mobs in stability and thought.
Key Takeaway
Value thoughtful, steady judgment over herd mentality.
Themes
philosophy
society
leadership
critical thinking
Mood
reflective
critical
inquisitive
Type
aphilosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- community building
- education reform
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Stoicism
collective behavior
intellectual rigor
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure your convictions are rooted in reflection?
- What practices foster steady, just feelings?
A Different Perspective
Mobs can be manipulated and lack deep conviction, limiting lasting impact.