Among all the diseases of the mind there is not one more epidemical or more pernicious than the love of flattery.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Flattery is compared to a widespread and harmful disease of the mind, suggesting it corrupts judgment universally.
- In plain terms
- Loving flattery is the worst mental illness.
- What can you take from it?
- Beware of seeking or believing praise that feels too good.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you been swayed by flattery?
- How do you distinguish praise from flattery?
Another view
It may oversimplify the complex reasons people enjoy flattery.
More from Richard Steele
Age in a virtuous person, of either sex, carries in it an authority which makes it preferable to all the pleasures of youth.
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Permalink to quote #11 Of all the affections which attend human life, the love of glory is the most ardent.
Permalink to quote #8
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