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Ninety-nine per cent of the people in the world are fools…

“Ninety-nine per cent of the people in the world are fools and the rest of us are in great danger of contagion.” quote by Thornton Wilder
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“Ninety-nine per cent of the people in the world are fools and the rest of us are in great danger of contagion.”

Thornton Wilder

About This Quote

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

The majority of humanity is foolish, and the remaining minority risks being infected by this folly.

In simple terms: Most people are fools; the rest risk contagion.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant and seek truth beyond common folly.

Themes

human nature folly danger contagion critical thinking

Mood

skeptical cautious thoughtful

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • media consumption
  • political discourse
  • education reform
  • personal decision‑making

Key Concepts

Skepticism social commentary

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you discern wisdom from folly?
  • What safeguards protect you from harmful ideas?
A Different Perspective

Generalizations may overlook nuance and diversity.

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