Aging Quote by W. Somerset Maugham
“From the earliest time the old have rubbed it into the young that they are wiser, and before the young had discovered what nonsense this was they were old too, and it profited them to carry on the imposture.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham, 1915
Society passes down false wisdom, and both generations end up perpetuating it without questioning.
In simple terms: Old lies become accepted as truth by the young.
Key Takeaway
Question inherited beliefs.
Themes
wisdom
generational
deception
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- family upbringing
- education
- career mentorship
- political rhetoric
Key Concepts
social conditioning
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs have you accepted without scrutiny?
- How can you test the validity of inherited advice?
A Different Perspective
Not all traditions are harmful; some provide valuable guidance.
