Elephants Quote by Bernard le Bovier de Fontenelle
“A true philosopher is like an elephant; he never puts the second foot down until the first one is solidly in place.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Letters to the Royal Academy, 1730
A philosopher should wait for solid foundations before advancing further, ensuring stability before progress.
In simple terms: Build on firm ground before moving forward.
Key Takeaway
Ensure foundations are secure before taking next steps.
Themes
philosophy
patience
methodology
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- personal decisions
- career planning
- project development
Key Concepts
foundationalism
incremental reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- What foundations do you need to solidify before advancing?
- How does patience affect long‑term success?
A Different Perspective
Rushing can lead to fragile outcomes if foundations are weak.
