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About this quote

What does it mean?
It is easier to appear wise to others than to be wise for oneself.
In plain terms
Pretending to be wise is easier than actually being wise.
What can you take from it?
True wisdom is harder than looking wise.

Where it applies

  • self-improvement
  • reputation management
  • ethical living

Putting it to work

  • focus on growth
  • avoid showiness
  • practice humility

Questions to consider

  • Do you seek truth or approval?
  • How do you measure wisdom?

Another view

External wisdom can still benefit others.

More from Francois de La Rochefoucauld

  1. Il suffit quelquefois d'etre grossier pour n'etre pas trompe par un habile homme.

    Permalink to quote #43

  2. On parle peu quand la vanite ne fait pas parler.

    Permalink to quote #45

  3. Le vrai moyen d'etre trompe, c'est de se croire plus fin que les autres.

    Permalink to quote #42

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