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About this quote

What does it mean?
Bad habits and foolish trends used to spread slowly through society, but now they spread incredibly fast. Modern life accelerates the adoption of folly.
In plain terms
Bad trends used to move slowly, but now they spread very quickly.
What can you take from it?
Be aware that bad ideas spread faster in modern times.

Where it applies

  • media consumption
  • social media use
  • cultural observation

Putting it to work

  • slow down decisions
  • critique trends
  • stay informed

Questions to consider

  • How do you resist bad trends spreading?
  • Is speed always bad for culture?

Another view

Not all fast trends are foolish; some innovations spread quickly for good reason.

More from Oliver Goldsmith

  1. Thou source of all my bliss, and all my woe, That found'st me poor at first, and keep'st me so.

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  2. I love everything that's old: old friends, old times, old manners, old books, old wines.

    Permalink to quote #70
  3. Her modest looks the cottage might adorn, Sweet as the primrose peeps beneath the thorn.

    Permalink to quote #67

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