Acrimony Quote by Samuel Johnson
“All discourse of which others cannot partake is not only an irksome usurpation of the time devoted to pleasure and entertainment, but, what never fails to excite resentment, an insolent assertion of superiority, and a triumph over less enlightened understandings. The pedant is, therefore, not only heard with weariness but malignity; and those who conceive themselves insulted by his knowledge never fail to tell with acrimony how injudiciously it was exerted.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1750
Excluding others from conversation shows arrogance and breeds resentment, as it asserts superiority over those less informed.
In simple terms: Talking only to those who understand shows arrogance and creates resentment.
Key Takeaway
Avoid exclusive dialogue; be inclusive.
Themes
arrogance
exclusion
resentment
communication
intellectualism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
social critique
When to use this quote
- academic seminars
- online forums
- team meetings
- family gatherings
Key Concepts
elitism
social dynamics
humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you invite diverse perspectives?
- What benefits arise from inclusive conversation?
A Different Perspective
May alienate listeners and hinder learning.
![“But rather than trying to understand and rise above them, as leaders should, the [presedential] campaigns have often simply channeled these negative emotions. This has made the substance and tone of much of the discussion not only unpleasant and uninspiring, but the acrimony and divisiveness are…” quote by John I. Jenkins](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/171/john-i-jenkins-29667_acrimony_but-rather-than-trying-to-understand-and_2870265.jpg)
