"Few of the many wise apothegms which have been uttered have prevented a single foolish action"

This quote by Thomas B. Macaulay suggests that despite the abundance of wise phrases and recommendations that have been given through the ages, they have not been able to prevent people from making foolish choices. This implies that knowledge alone is not enough to prevent individuals from making errors. It suggests that knowledge must be integrated with action in order to be effective. It also suggests that individuals are ultimately accountable for their own actions, no matter the suggestions they get.

The quote also suggests that wisdom is not a guarantee of success. Even if someone is sensible and has access to wise advice, they can still make mistakes. This indicates that knowledge is not an assurance of success, and that individuals should take responsibility for their own actions.

Overall, this quote by Thomas B. Macaulay recommends that wisdom is insufficient to avoid individuals from making foolish choices. It suggests that knowledge should be integrated with action in order to work, and that people are eventually accountable for their own actions. It also recommends that wisdom is not an assurance of success, which individuals need to take obligation for their own actions.