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Esteem must be founded on some sort of preference. Bestow it on everybody and it ceases to have any meaning at all.
Moliere
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Esteem gains value through selectivity; universal admiration dilutes its significance.

Moliere's quote suggests that esteem or respect holds true value only when it is reserved for certain individuals based on preference and merit. When esteem is indiscriminately given to everyone without discernment, it loses its meaning and impact, as it no longer signifies anything special or noteworthy.

Themes

EsteemRespectValuePreferencesMeaning

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about personal value and self-worth.

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