All the world knows me in my book, and my book in me.
Michel De MontaigneRead
Stubborn and ardent clinging to one's opinion is the best proof of stupidity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Holding onto one's opinion too rigidly often reflects a lack of understanding and intelligence.
This quote by Michel De Montaigne highlights the folly of obstinacy in one's beliefs. It suggests that an unwillingness to consider other perspectives or to change oneβs stance in the face of new evidence demonstrates ignorance rather than strength, indicating that true wisdom involves openness and adaptability in thought.
Themes
OpinionStubbornnessWisdomUnderstandingIgnorance
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about politics, this quote could remind participants to remain open to differing views.
More from Michel De Montaigne
All quotes βAll I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.
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Such as are in immediate fear of a losing their estates, of banishment, or of slavery, live in perpetual anguish, and lose all appetite and repose; whereas such as are actually poor, slaves, or exiles, ofttimes live as merrily as other folk.
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