Bad man Quote by George Mikes
“In England it is bad manners to be clever, to assert something confidently. It may be your own personal view that two and two make four, but you must not state it in a self-assured way, because this is a democratic country and others may be of a different opinion.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The English Gentleman, George Mikes, 1955
In England, overt confidence is seen as rude; modesty is valued, even when one holds a factual belief.
In simple terms: Being overly confident is impolite in English culture.
Key Takeaway
Speak modestly, even when right.
Themes
social etiquette
humor
culture
Mood
reflective
lighthearted
Type
cultural
humorous
When to use this quote
- workplace discussions
- public debates
- social gatherings
Key Concepts
modesty
confidence
democracy
Questions to Reflect On
- When should confidence be expressed?
- How to balance humility with truth?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on modesty may suppress honest discourse.
