Delicate Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“Praise is flattery, artful, hidden, delicate, which gratifies differently him who praises and him who is praised. The one takes it as the reward of merit, the other bestows it to show his impartiality and knowledge.”
About This Quote
Praise serves different purposes: it flatters the giver and the receiver, reflecting merit or strategic impartiality.
In simple terms: Praise benefits both giver and receiver differently.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the motives behind compliments.
Themes
social dynamics
ego
recognition
Mood
reflective
observational
Type
social
psychological
When to use this quote
- courtly life
- personal interactions
Key Concepts
flattery
impartiality
merit
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we give praise?
- How does praise affect self‑esteem?
A Different Perspective
Praise can be manipulative if insincere.
