The world has become uglier since it began to look into a mirror every day; so let us settle for the mirror image and do without an inspection of the original.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Constant self-reflection through mirrors has made the world uglier, so we should accept illusions over harsh reality.
- In plain terms
- Looking at ourselves too much makes things worse, so maybe we should ignore the truth.
- What can you take from it?
- Excessive self-scrutiny can distort reality and degrade quality of life.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does constant self-criticism improve or harm us?
- When is illusion preferable to truth?
Another view
Avoiding inspection of reality might prevent necessary growth or accountability.
More from Karl Kraus
The secret of the demagogue is to make himself as stupid as his audience so that they believe they are as clever as he.
Permalink to quote #44 To be sure, the dog is loyal. But why, on that account, should we take him as an example? He is loyal to man, not to other dogs.
Permalink to quote #46 The real truths are those that can be invented.
Permalink to quote #43
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