Interest Quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld
“We do not like to praise, and seldom praise anyone without self-interest.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Maximes, 1665
He notes that praise is rarely given without self‑interest, suggesting motives are often selfish.
In simple terms: People rarely praise without personal gain.
Key Takeaway
Question the sincerity of compliments.
Themes
egoism
social behavior
motivation
honesty
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- workplace feedback
- political endorsements
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
self‑interest
social dynamics
psychology of flattery
Questions to Reflect On
- When is genuine praise possible?
- How does self‑interest affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Not all praise is insincere; context matters.
![“Next came the Patent laws. These began in England in 1624; and, in this country, with the adoption of our constitution. Before then [these?], any man might instantly use what another had invented; so that the inventor had no special advantage from his own invention. The patent system changed this…” quote by Abraham Lincoln](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/449/abraham-lincoln-88_adoption_next-came-the-patent-laws-these-began-in_1828.jpg)
