Vanity is so frequently the apparent motive of advice that…
“Vanity is so frequently the apparent motive of advice that we, for the most part, summon our powers to oppose it without very accurate inquiry whether it is right. It is sufficient that another is growing great in his own eyes at our expense, and assumes authority over us without our permission; for many would contentedly suffer the consequences of their own mistakes, rather than the insolence of him who triumphs as their deliverer.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Advice often hides vanity; we reject it without questioning its truth, allowing others to dominate us.
In simple terms: We dismiss advice because of ego, letting others control us.
Key Takeaway
Question motives before rejecting counsel.
Themes
ego
authority
criticism
Mood
skeptical
thoughtful
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- personal relationships
- media consumption
- education
Key Concepts
philosophy
social dynamics
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we assume advice is self‑serving?
- How can we discern sincere guidance?
A Different Perspective
Might ignore genuine wisdom behind the advice.