Authority Quote by Arthur Schopenhauer
“To form a judgment intuitively is the privilege of few; authority and example lead the rest of the world. They see with the eyes of others, they hear with the ears of others. Therefore it is very easy to think as all the world now think; but to think as all the world will think thirty years hence is not in the power of every one.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The World as Will and Representation, Arthur Schopenhauer, 1818
Intuition gives a few the ability to judge independently, while most rely on authority and precedent, making current consensus easy but future insight difficult.
In simple terms: Only a few can judge independently; most follow others.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate independent thinking.
Themes
independence
authority
future insight
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- strategic planning
- education curricula
- long‑term policy making
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical thinking
prediction
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you anticipate future shifts?
- What sources help develop independent judgment?
A Different Perspective
Future thinking requires imagination beyond present norms.
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