Skip to content

It is better to believe in men too rashly, and regret…

“It is better to believe in men too rashly, and regret, than believe too meanly. Men could be more than they are, if they would try for it. He has shown them that. How many have tried, because of him? Not only those I have seen; there will be men to come. Those who look in mankind only for their…” quote by Mary Renault
Download Open image
““It is better to believe in men too rashly, and regret, than believe too meanly. Men could be more than they are, if they would try for it. He has shown them that. How many have tried, because of him? Not only those I have seen; there will be men to come. Those who look in mankind only for their own littleness, and make them believe in that, kill more than he ever will in all his wars.””

Mary Renault

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Believing in people’s potential, even if they fail, inspires greater effort than cynicism that suppresses ambition.

In simple terms: Hopeful belief fuels achievement more than harsh doubt.

Key Takeaway

Encourage optimism about others.

Themes

hope potential leadership

Mood

inspirational reflective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • team building
  • mentorship
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Human nature motivation influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does belief change outcomes?
  • When is skepticism useful?
A Different Perspective

Cynicism can demotivate and stifle growth.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet
War

More by Mary Renault

Explore all 89 Mary Renault quotes

More War quotes

Browse all 38,922 War quotes