Contempt Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“Those only are despicable who fear to be despised.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Maximes, 1665
Only those who fear being despised are truly despicable.
In simple terms: Fear of contempt makes one despicable.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate confidence over concern for opinion.
Themes
ethics
self‑esteem
social perception
integrity
Mood
critical
philosophical
Type
ethical
psychological
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- leadership
- personal branding
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
human behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear of judgment shape actions?
- When is concern for reputation beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Fear can also protect against reckless behavior.
![“Every person of any rank in the left, from voter on up to cabinet member to elected official in the Democrat Party, has contempt. We [Republicans] are the number one enemy. And they will put aside whatever differences they have.” quote by Rush Limbaugh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/08a/rush-limbaugh-28_cabinets_every-person-of-any-rank-in-the-left-fro_29974.jpg){kind=icon}