None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
No doubt another may also think for me; but it is not therefore desirable that he should do so to the exclusion of my thinking for myself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of individual thought and independence over relying solely on others' opinions.
Henry David Thoreau highlights the necessity of self-thought and critical thinking in this quote. While it is possible for someone else to think for us, allowing them to dominate our thoughts undermines our autonomy and personal growth. Thoreau advocates for the value of individual perspective and reasoning, encouraging us to engage with our own thoughts in order to truly understand ourselves and the world around us.
Themes
IndependenceThoughtAutonomySelf-ReflectionIndividuality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire a discussion in a philosophy class about the importance of independent thinking.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes βThrough want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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