Age Quote by Jean de La Fontaine
“Men of all ages have the same inclinations, over which reason exercises no control. Thus, wherever men are found, there are follies, ay, and the same follies.”
About This Quote
Source Fable: The Fables of La Fontaine, 1668
Human nature repeats the same irrational habits regardless of age, and reason cannot fully govern them.
In simple terms: People keep making the same mistakes no matter how old they are.
Key Takeaway
Accept irrationality, but strive for self‑awareness.
Themes
human nature
irrationality
reason
habit
wisdom
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
advice
observational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- political decision‑making
- education
- organizational culture
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
behavioral economics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we mitigate recurring follies in institutions?
- What role does education play in tempering irrational inclinations?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone cannot eliminate folly; structural and cultural factors also shape behavior.
![“More than all, and above all, [George] Washington was master of himself. If there be one quality more than another in his character which may exercise a useful control over the men of the present hour, it is the total disregard of self when in the most elevated positions for influence and example.” quote by Charles Francis Adams, Sr](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da9/charles-francis-adams-sr-70316_character_more-than-all-and-above-all-george-washi_920377.jpg)
![“No flowery road leads to glory. [Fr., Aucun chemin de fleurs ne conduit a la gloire.]” quote by Jean de La Fontaine](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/767/jean-de-la-fontaine-2320_flower_no-flowery-road-leads-to-glory-fr-aucun_55067.jpg)
