"With people of limited ability modesty is merely honesty. But with those who possess great talent it is hypocrisy"

In this quote, philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer is highlighting the distinction in between modesty and sincerity. He recommends that for people with restricted abilities, modesty is just being truthful about their restrictions. Nevertheless, for those who have great talent, modesty becomes a type of hypocrisy. This is due to the fact that these individuals are aware of their extraordinary abilities, yet pick to downplay or conceal them in order to appear humble. Schopenhauer is implying that real modesty can only exist in those who are not familiar with their own skills, while those who are aware of their talents and still select to be modest are being disingenuous.