Circles Quote by John Stuart Mill
“Stupidity is much the same all the world over. A stupid person's notions and feelings may confidently be inferred from those which prevail in the circle by which the person is surrounded. Not so with those whose opinions and feelings are an emanation from their own nature and faculties.”
About This Quote
Stupidity is universal; a person's thoughts reflect their social circle, unlike those guided by independent reasoning.
In simple terms: Stupidity is similar worldwide; thoughts mirror surroundings unless self-derived.
Key Takeaway
Seek independent thought beyond peer influence.
Themes
intelligence
social influence
independence
critical thinking
culture
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- education
- media consumption
- group decision making
- personal development
Key Concepts
psychology
social conformity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your environment shape your beliefs?
- What steps foster independent reasoning?
A Different Perspective
Independent thinkers may be isolated or misunderstood.
![“[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” quote by John Stuart Mill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c53/john-stuart-mill-477_doubt_for-people-to-refuse-a-hearing-to-an-opi_63929.jpg)
![“Tell them you came, and saw, and looked into my eyes and saw the shadow of the guard receding. Thoughts in time and out of season, the hitchinker stood by the side of the road and levelled his thumb in the calm calculus of reason. [...] Why does my mind circle around you? Why do planets wonder…” quote by Jim Morrison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9ae/jim-morrison-1692_bird_tell-them-you-came-and-saw-and-looked-in_18280.jpg)