We are far more liable to catch the vices than the virtues of our associates.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author notes that people are more likely to catch bad habits (vices) from associates than good ones (virtues).
- In plain terms
- Bad habits spread easier than good ones among friends.
- What can you take from it?
- Choose your company carefully.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you absorb bad habits easily?
- Who influences your behavior the most?
Another view
It ignores the possibility of people overcoming negative influences.
More from Denis Diderot
Distance is a great promoter of admiration!
Permalink to quote #21 Evil always turns up in this world through some genius or other.
Permalink to quote #23 The best doctor is the one you run for and can't find.
Permalink to quote #20
Related quotes
'Lady Cannon's gone to a matinee at the St. James's. We had tickets for the first night, but of course she wouldn't use them then. She preferred to go alone in…
Ada LeversonAda Leverson quote #1 The best good man, with the worst natur'd muse.
James BoswellJames Boswell quote #3 Je savais que le bien comme le mal est affaire de routine, que le temporaire se prolonge, que l'exterieur s'infiltre au dedans, et que le masque, a la longue, …
Marguerite YourcenarMarguerite Yourcenar quote #8