Skip to content

Actors Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche

“It was modesty that invented the word "philosopher" in Greece and left the magnificent overweening presumption in calling oneselfwise to the actors of the spirit--the modesty of such monsters of pride and sovereignty as Pythagoras, as Plato.” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
Download Open image
“It was modesty that invented the word "philosopher" in Greece and left the magnificent overweening presumption in calling oneselfwise to the actors of the spirit--the modesty of such monsters of pride and sovereignty as Pythagoras, as Plato.”

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

Source Book: Thus Spoke Zarathustra, 1883

Nietzsche suggests that true wisdom arises from humility, contrasting it with the arrogance of self‑proclaimed “wise” thinkers.

In simple terms: Humility breeds wisdom, pride blinds.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate modesty to gain insight.

Themes

humility wisdom pride philosophy

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal growth
  • leadership decisions

Key Concepts

self‑knowledge ego intellectual humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does humility change your learning?
  • When have you mistaken confidence for wisdom?
A Different Perspective

Pride can masquerade as confidence, leading to blind spots.

2.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Friedrich Nietzsche

Explore all 3,486 Friedrich Nietzsche quotes

More Actors quotes

Browse all 11,394 Actors quotes