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About this quote

What does it mean?
People often hide behind false appearances, deceiving both themselves and others.
In plain terms
People lie to themselves and others.
What can you take from it?
Self‑deception is common.

Where it applies

  • social interactions
  • personal introspection

Putting it to work

  • practice honesty
  • question personal narratives

Questions to consider

  • Why do we disguise ourselves?
  • When is self‑deception harmful?

Another view

Not all self‑presentation is intentional deception.

More from Blaise Pascal

  1. L'homme est un roseau, le plus faible de la nature, mais c'est un roseau pensant. (347)

    Permalink to quote #35
  2. Man is so made that if he is told often enough that he is a fool he believes it. (535)

    Permalink to quote #37
  3. Make religion attractive, make good men wish it were true, and then show that it is. Worthy of reverence because it really understands human nature. Attractive…

    Permalink to quote #34

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