Folly Quote by Moses Mendelssohn
“The principal axiom in their theory was: Everything can be proved, and everything can be disproved; and in the process, one must profit as much from the folly of others, and from his own superiority, as he can.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise, 18th Century
All statements can be proven or disproven, and one should profit from others’ errors and one’s own superiority.
In simple terms: Everything is provable; profit from folly and superiority.
Key Takeaway
Question the value of profiting from others’ mistakes.
Themes
philosophy
logic
ethics
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- business strategy
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
epistemology
pragmatism
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ethical to benefit from others’ errors?
- How does this axiom affect collaborative work?
A Different Perspective
Such a profit‑driven mindset may erode trust and cooperation.
