Cautious Quote by Richard Whately
“It is a remarkable circumstance in reference to cunning persons that they are often deficient not only in comprehensive, far-sighted wisdom, but even in prudent, cautious circumspection.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Elements of Rhetoric, 1828
Cunning people often lack deep wisdom and careful foresight, making them short-sighted and imprudent.
In simple terms: Cunning lacks wisdom and caution.
Key Takeaway
Beware overconfidence without insight.
Themes
wisdom
prudence
caution
cunning
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership decisions
- financial planning
- personal relationships
- policy making
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
short-sightedness
overconfidence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance cleverness with humility?
- What safeguards protect against short-sighted decisions?
A Different Perspective
Even clever individuals may miss long-term consequences despite intelligence.
