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Social psychology Quote by Arthur Schopenhauer

“There is one thing that, more than any other, throws people absolutely off their balance — the thought that you are dependent upon them. This is sure to produce an insolent and domineering manner towards you. There are some people, indeed, who become rude if you enter into any kind of relation…” quote by Arthur Schopenhauer
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““There is one thing that, more than any other, throws people absolutely off their balance — the thought that you are dependent upon them. This is sure to produce an insolent and domineering manner towards you. There are some people, indeed, who become rude if you enter into any kind of relation with them; for instance, if you have occasion to converse with them frequently upon confidential matters, they soon come to fancy that they can take liberties with you, and so they try and transgress the laws of politeness. This is why there are so few with whom you care to become more intimate, and why you should avoid familiarity with vulgar people. If a man comes to think that I am more dependent upon him than he is upon me, he at once feels as though I had stolen something from him; and his endeavor will be to have his vengeance and get it back. The only way to attain superiority in dealing with men, is to let it be seen that you are independent of them.””

Arthur Schopenhauer

About This Quote

Independence prevents others from exploiting perceived dependence.

In simple terms: Stay independent to avoid domination.

Key Takeaway

Maintain personal autonomy.

Themes

power dynamics independence relationships

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • personal boundaries
  • friendships

Key Concepts

psychology social hierarchy

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is dependence healthy?
  • How to balance independence and trust?
A Different Perspective

Excessive independence may alienate allies.

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