"All human excellence is but comparative. There may be persons who excel us, as much as we fancy we excel the meanest"
- Samuel Richardson
About this Quote
In this quote, Samuel Richardson is highlighting the concept that human quality is subjective and relative. He suggests that while we might consider ourselves to be exceptional in certain locations, there will always be others who exceed us in those same locations. This can be viewed as a humbling tip that no matter how competent or accomplished we may be, there will always be someone who is much better. Richardson likewise emphasizes the importance of not looking down on those who may not excel in the same ways as us, as they may master other locations that we do not. Eventually, this quote serves as a suggestion to remain modest and open-minded in our perceptions of quality.
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