Appearance Quote by William Hazlitt
“We are fonder of visiting our friends in health than in sickness. We judge less favorably of their characters when any misfortune happens to them; and a lucky hit, either in business or reputation, improves even their personal appearance in our eyes.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "On the Pleasures of the Imagination", 1818
People tend to admire friends when they are well, but criticize them when they suffer misfortune, and success makes them appear more attractive.
In simple terms: We favor healthy friends and judge sick ones harshly.
Key Takeaway
Recognize bias in how you view others.
Themes
friendship
judgment
perception
fortune
bias
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- evaluating coworkers
- supporting ill friends
- making hiring decisions
- social media commentary
Key Concepts
social psychology
cognitive bias
self‑serving bias
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you judge friends differently when they face hardship?
- How does success alter your perception of someone's character?
A Different Perspective
People may also admire those who succeed, overlooking their flaws.
