We are discreet sheep; we wait to see how the drove is…
“We are discreet sheep; we wait to see how the drove is going, and then go with the drove. We have two opinions: one private, which we are afraid to express; and another one - the one we use - which we force ourselves to wear to please Mrs. Grundy, until habit makes us comfortable in it, and the custom of defending it presently makes us love it, adore it, and forget how pitifully we came by it. Look at it in politics.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often hide their true opinions to fit social expectations, adopting false personas that become comfortable over time.
In simple terms: We hide true thoughts to fit in.
Key Takeaway
Question authentic beliefs.
Themes
conformity
identity
social pressure
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observational
social commentary
When to use this quote
- workplace meetings
- family gatherings
- political campaigns
- social media interactions
Key Concepts
self‑deception
groupthink
political behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you wear a mask to please others?
- How does conformity shape your decisions?
A Different Perspective
People may also genuinely change views, not just hide them.