When a thing is new, people say: ‘It is not true.’ Later…
“When a thing is new, people say: ‘It is not true.’ Later, when its truth becomes obvious, they say: ‘It is not important.’ Finally, when its importance cannot be denied, they say: ‘Anyway, it is not new.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
New ideas are first dismissed, then undervalued, and finally accepted as essential once their impact is undeniable.
In simple terms: New ideas face skepticism before acceptance.
Key Takeaway
Persist despite early criticism.
Themes
skepticism
ideas
acceptance
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- technology adoption
- scientific breakthroughs
- cultural trends
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social proof
paradigm shift
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas have you dismissed too quickly?
- How do you recognize lasting importance?
A Different Perspective
Resistance may persist even after acceptance.