Acquaintance Quote by Georg C. Lichtenberg
“We judge nothing so hastily as character, and yet there is nothing over which we should be more cautious… I have always found that the so-called bad people improve on closer acquaintance, while the good fall off.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on Human Nature, 18th Century
We tend to form quick judgments about people, but deeper knowledge often reverses those judgments; good people may disappoint, while those labeled bad can surprise positively.
In simple terms: First impressions are unreliable; deeper acquaintance changes our view.
Key Takeaway
Pause before judging; seek deeper understanding.
Themes
judgment
character
perception
trust
human nature
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- job interviews
- friendship building
- team hiring
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social perception
ethical reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How might you test your assumptions about someone?
- What evidence would change your view of a person?
A Different Perspective
People may still act poorly despite deeper knowledge; not all “bad” become good.
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![“[On an anarchist acquaintance:] Everything in appearance the most alarmist aunt could wish.” quote by Sylvia Townsend Warner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ae9/sylvia-townsend-warner-7063_acquaintance_on-an-anarchist-acquaintance-everything_72515.jpg)
