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Bad company Quote by Denis Diderot

“Bad company is as instructive as licentiousness. One makes up for the loss of one's innocence with the loss of one's prejudices.” quote by Denis Diderot
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“Bad company is as instructive as licentiousness. One makes up for the loss of one's innocence with the loss of one's prejudices.”

Denis Diderot

About This Quote

Source Essay: The French Enlightenment, 1760s

Bad company teaches lessons similar to immoral behavior; losing innocence is replaced by losing prejudice.

In simple terms: Wrong company teaches like vice; losing innocence replaces losing bias.

Key Takeaway

Learn from bad influences, but guard your values.

Themes

morality influence prejudice innocence

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • social circles
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

philosophy social learning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does surrounding yourself with negative people affect your values?
  • Can you gain insight without adopting their flaws?
A Different Perspective

Bad company may also reinforce harmful habits.

3.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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