Reverence is an ennobling sentiment; it is felt to be…
“Reverence is an ennobling sentiment; it is felt to be degrading only by the vulgar mind, which would escape the sense of its own littleness by elevating itself into an antagonist of what is above it. He that has no pleasure in looking up is not fit so much as to look down. Of such minds are mannerists in Art; in the world, tyrants of all sorts.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Elevating oneself by despising higher ideals reveals a shallow, vulgar mindset that lacks true reverence.
In simple terms: Seeing higher things as threats shows shallow thinking.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility and respect for higher ideals.
Themes
humility
reverence
arrogance
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- leadership
- personal growth
- education
- politics
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you respect what is above you?
- How does humility affect your decisions?
A Different Perspective
Such disdain can stem from insecurity, limiting growth.