To sum up: I am the man who when the concern pressed him…
“To sum up: I am the man who when the concern pressed him and his way was straitened and he could find no other device by which to teach a demonstrable truth other than by giving satisfaction to a single virtuous man while displeasing ten thousand ignoramuses - I am he who prefers to address that single man by himself, and I do not heed the blame of those many creatures.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He values teaching truth to a virtuous individual over pleasing the masses, emphasizing integrity over popularity.
In simple terms: Teach truth to the good, not the crowd.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize integrity over approval.
Themes
ethics
education
integrity
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal mentorship
- public discourse
- academic instruction
- leadership
- council meetings
Key Concepts
philosophical teaching
individual impact
Questions to Reflect On
- Who is the “single virtuous man” you aim to reach?
- Can truth be taught without alienating others?
A Different Perspective
Risk of alienating many.