Identity Quote by Francis Bacon
“The arch-flatterer, with whom all the petty flatterers have intelligence, is a man's self.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays, 1625
He claims that excessive flattery reveals a deeper self‑interest, equating it with self‑service.
In simple terms: Flattery often hides selfish motives.
Beware of insincere praise.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- workplace
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is flattery genuine?
- How to discern motive?
Flattery can sometimes be genuine.