Much has seen said of the wisdom of old age. Old age is…
“Much has seen said of the wisdom of old age. Old age is wise, I grant, for itself, but not wise for the community. It is wise in declining new enterprises, for it has not the power nor the time to execute them; wise in shrinking from difficulty, for it has not the strength to overcome it; wise in avoiding danger, for it lacks the faculty of ready and swift action, by which dangers are parried and converted into advantages. But this is not wisdom for mankind at large, by whom new enterprises must be undertaken, dangers met, and difficulties surmounted.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Old age brings wisdom in avoiding risks but lacks the vigor for new ventures; society needs youthful energy for progress.
In simple terms: Age gives caution, not the drive for new challenges.
Key Takeaway
Combine experience with youthful initiative.
Themes
age
wisdom
innovation
Mood
thoughtful
balanced
Type
philosophical
strategic
When to use this quote
- business leadership
- community projects
- policy making
- mentoring
Key Concepts
generational dynamics
risk assessment
Questions to Reflect On
- How can older and younger generations collaborate?
- What roles suit each age group?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on youth may ignore valuable experience.