It is man's own fault, it is from want of use, if his mind grows torpid in old age.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- If a mind becomes sluggish in old age, it is due to lack of use.
- In plain terms
- Old age mental decline happens when we stop exercising the mind.
- What can you take from it?
- Keep the mind active to stay sharp.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What mental activities help you stay sharp?
- How much does use impact cognition?
Another view
Biological factors also affect cognition regardless of use.
More from Samuel Johnson
All argument is against it; but all belief is for it.
Permalink to quote #158 Every man thinks meanly of himself for not having been a soldier, or not having been at sea.
Permalink to quote #160 It is more from carelessness about truth than from intentional lying, that there is so much falsehood in the world.
Permalink to quote #157
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