Persecution Quote by Bertrand Russell
““...suggest four general maxims, which will prove an adequate preventive of persecution mania if their truth is sufficiently realized. The first is: remember that your motives are not always as altruistic as they seem to yourself. The second is: don't overestimate your own merits. The third is: don't expect others to take as much interest in you as you do yourself. And the fourth is: don't imagine that most people give enough thought to you to have any desire to persecute you.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Conquest of Happiness, Bertrand Russell, 1930
Recognize that self‑interest and bias shape perception, and that over‑valuing oneself or expecting others' attention can fuel paranoia.
In simple terms: People often misjudge motives and overestimate importance.
Key Takeaway
Check humility and realistic expectations.
Themes
humility
self‑awareness
paranoia
social perception
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
advisory
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- mental health
- social interaction
Key Concepts
psychology
ego
bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess your motives objectively?
- Do you expect too much attention from others?
A Different Perspective
Over‑confidence can blind one to genuine threats.
![“These illustrations suggest four general maxims[...]. The first is: remember that your motives are not always as altruistic as they seem to yourself. The second is: don't over-estimate your own merits. The third is: don't expect others to take as much interest in you as you do yourself. And the…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/f03/bertrand-russell-69_desire_these-illustrations-suggest-four-general_3090726.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
