Skip to content

Acknowledge Quote by Thomas Hobbes

“Such is the nature of men, that howsoever they may acknowledge many others to be more witty, or more eloquent, or more learned; yet they will hardly believe there be many so wise as themselves.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
Download Open image
“Such is the nature of men, that howsoever they may acknowledge many others to be more witty, or more eloquent, or more learned; yet they will hardly believe there be many so wise as themselves.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

Source Essay: Leviathan, 1651

People tend to overestimate their own wisdom while undervaluing others', leading to inflated self‑assessment.

In simple terms: We think we’re wiser than we are.

Key Takeaway

Check humility in judgments.

Themes

ego wisdom self‑assessment humility

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • leadership
  • team meetings
  • peer review

Key Concepts

cognitive bias overconfidence self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you misjudged your own wisdom?
  • How can you better evaluate others’ insights?
A Different Perspective

Self‑assessment can be accurate in some contexts.

3.0 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Thomas Hobbes

Explore all 285 Thomas Hobbes quotes

More Acknowledge quotes

Browse all 1,475 Acknowledge quotes