"Being a blockhead is sometimes the best security against being cheated by a man of wit"
- Francois de La Rochefoucauld
About this Quote
This quote by Francois de La Rochefoucauld suggests that being ignorant or "a blockhead" can be advantageous in certain scenarios. He suggests that if one is not too educated or smart, they are less likely to be benefited from by somebody who is more smart. This is since an individual of wit might have the ability to utilize their understanding to manipulate or deceive somebody who is not as well-informed. Therefore, being a blockhead can be a form of security versus being made the most of. This quote likewise suggests that it is essential to be knowledgeable about one's own understanding and intelligence, and to be familiar with the potential for control by those who are more educated. It is necessary to be knowledgeable about one's own strengths and weaknesses, and to be familiar with the capacity for adjustment by those who are more educated. In this way, one can safeguard themselves from being taken advantage of.
"Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality"
"The man who makes everything that leads to happiness depends upon himself, and not upon other men, has adopted the very best plan for living happily. This is the man of moderation, the man of manly character and of wisdom"
