Here’s a 165-year old but still fitting comment on public…
““Here’s a 165-year old but still fitting comment on public officials who are so sure they’re right that they’ll drive over a cliff rather than compromise: “Always to be right, always to trample forward, and never to doubt – are not these the great qualities with which dullness takes the lead in the world?” William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair: a Novel without a Hero (1848). The author’s middle name really was “Makepeace.” As the quote shows, he disliked those who would not.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Self‑righteousness leads to reckless actions and prevents compromise, revealing the folly of stubborn pride.
In simple terms: Being always right causes reckless behavior.
Key Takeaway
Beware of arrogance; stay open to compromise.
Themes
pride
stubbornness
recklessness
compromise
folly
Mood
cautionary
analytical
Type
novel
quotation
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- team projects
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
ethics
leadership
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you let go of being right?
- What strategies help you stay humble?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can blind one to better solutions.