Certain Quote by Pliny the Elder
“Among these things, one thing seems certain - that nothing certain exists and that there is nothing more pitiful or more presumptuous than man.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Natural History by Pliny the Elder, 77 AD
Human existence is fraught with uncertainty, and our greatest flaw is both pride and self‑pity.
In simple terms: Man is uncertain and prone to vanity.
Accept uncertainty, temper pride.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- philosophical
- personal reflection
- academic discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does acknowledging uncertainty change behavior?
- What role does humility play in human progress?
certaintycertainty can paralyze action.