Conclusion Quote by Samuel Johnson
“It is very natural for young men to be vehement, acrimonious and severe. For as they seldom comprehend at once all the consequences of a position, or perceive the difficulties by which cooler and more experienced reasoners are restrained from confidence, they form their conclusions with great precipitance. Seeing nothing that can darken or embarrass the question, they expect to find their own opinion universally prevalent, and are inclined to impute uncertainty and hesitation to want of honesty, rather than of knowledge.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
Young men often act impulsively because they lack full understanding and experience, leading them to overestimate their own views and dismiss others.
In simple terms: Youth is impulsive due to limited perspective.
Seek broader perspective before forming firm opinions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debate
- career decisions
- personal relationships
- leadership
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How might you test your assumptions before asserting them?
- What steps can you take to consider alternative viewpoints?
Youthful certainty can blind one to valid criticism.