Almost all absurdity of conduct arises from the imitation of those whom we cannot resemble.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Absurd behavior often comes from trying to copy people you cannot be like.
- In plain terms
- People act strangely when they copy those they cannot be like.
- What can you take from it?
- Avoid copying people you cannot truly resemble.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who do you try to copy?
- Why do people imitate others?
Another view
It oversimplifies complex social influences and cultural contexts.
More from Samuel Johnson
No place affords a more striking conviction of the vanity of human hopes than a public library.
Permalink to quote #54 No oppression is so heavy or lasting as that which is inflicted by the perversion and exorbitance of legal authority.
Permalink to quote #56 No man is much pleased with a companion, who does not increase, in some respect, his fondness for himself.
Permalink to quote #53
Related quotes
If a dog starts biting you, you can't kick it up the throat like it deserves. People always say 'Oh dear, poor little dog, he was only trying to be friendly. T…
Peter CookPeter Cook quote #30 The less satisfaction we derive from being ourselves, the greater is our desire to be like others.
Eric HofferEric Hoffer quote #204 'Whom are you?' he said, for he had been to night school.
George AdeGeorge Ade quote #1