Confidence Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
“Whoever deliberately attempts to insure confidentiality with another person is usually in doubt as to whether he inspires that person's confidence in him. One who is sure that he inspires confidence attaches little importance to confidentiality.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Beyond Good and Evil, 1886
People who try to guarantee secrecy often lack confidence in others, while those confident in their influence care less about keeping secrets.
In simple terms: Insecurity leads to overprotectiveness; confidence reduces secrecy concerns.
Trust and confidence reduce the need for strict confidentiality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- team leadership
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you protect secrets to mask doubt?
- How does confidence change your view of confidentiality?
Over‑emphasis on secrecy can damage trust.