--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Next to the very young, I suppose the…" description: "\"Next to the very young, I suppose the very old are the most selfish.\" — William Makepeace Thackeray" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/d87/william-makepeace-thackeray-74_next_next-to-the-very-young-i-suppose-the-ver_2033100.jpg" --- # Next to the very young, I suppose the very old are the… ![“Next to the very young, I suppose the very old are the most selfish.” quote by William Makepeace Thackeray](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/d87/william-makepeace-thackeray-74_next_next-to-the-very-young-i-suppose-the-ver_2033100.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/d87/william-makepeace-thackeray-74_next_next-to-the-very-young-i-suppose-the-ver_2033100.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/d87/william-makepeace-thackeray-74_next_next-to-the-very-young-i-suppose-the-ver_2033100.jpg) > “Next to the very young, I suppose the very old are the most selfish.” [William Makepeace Thackeray](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/william-makepeace-thackeray/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. The very old, like the very young, often act selfishly, prioritizing personal comfort over others. **In simple terms:** Old people can be selfish too. Key Takeaway Consider empathy across ages. Themes generational selfishness age human nature psychology Mood thoughtful critical empathetic Type analytical philosophical When to use this quote - family dynamics - elder care - intergenerational programs - community volunteering Key Concepts Gerontology social behavior ethical reflection Questions to Reflect On - How does age influence selfish behavior? - What examples challenge this view? 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