Quote Quote by William Makepeace Thackeray
““Here’s a 165-year old but still fitting comment on public officials who are so sure they’re right that they’ll drive over a cliff rather than compromise: “Always to be right, always to trample forward, and never to doubt – are not these the great qualities with which dullness takes the lead in the world?” William Makepeace Thackeray, Vanity Fair: a Novel without a Hero (1848). The author’s middle name really was “Makepeace.” As the quote shows, he disliked those who would not.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Vanity Fair, 1848
Self‑righteousness leads to reckless actions and prevents compromise, revealing the folly of stubborn pride.
In simple terms: Being always right causes reckless behavior.
Key Takeaway
Beware of arrogance; stay open to compromise.
Themes
pride
stubbornness
recklessness
compromise
folly
Mood
cautionary
analytical
Type
novel
quotation
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- team projects
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
ethics
leadership
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you let go of being right?
- What strategies help you stay humble?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence can blind one to better solutions.
