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About this quote

What does it mean?
People tend to love those who admire them, but not necessarily those they admire themselves. Flattery feeds ego more than admiration inspires affection.
In plain terms
We like those who praise us more than those we praise.
What can you take from it?
Ego-driven relationships favor flattery over respect.

Where it applies

  • friendship
  • romance
  • workplace dynamics

Putting it to work

  • seek mutual respect
  • value sincerity over flattery

Questions to consider

  • Why do we crave admiration?
  • Can true admiration exist without love?

Another view

Some admire others deeply without expecting love in return.

More from Francois de La Rochefoucauld

  1. Il est impossible d'aimer une seconde fois ce qu'on a veritablement cesse d'aimer.

    Permalink to quote #72
  2. La reconnaissance de la plupart des hommes n'est qu'une secrete envie de recevoir de plus grands bienfaits.

    Permalink to quote #74
  3. L'absence diminue les mediocres passions, et augmente les grandes, comme le vent eteint les bougies et allume le feu.

    Permalink to quote #71

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