Prejudices are what fools use for reason.
VoltaireRead
You are very harsh.' 'I have seen the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects a perspective shaped by life's experiences, suggesting that harshness can stem from a deep understanding of reality.
Voltaire's statement implies that one who has observed and experienced the complexities and harshness of the world might adopt a critical or stern viewpoint. It speaks to the idea that true wisdom often comes from facing difficult truths and that those who have navigated life's challenges may seem harsh, but their perspective is rooted in genuine understanding.
Themes
HarshnessExperienceWisdomLifeUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the challenges of adulthood, one might say, 'You are very harsh.' 'I have seen the world, it’s not an easy place.'
More from Voltaire
All quotes →He was a great patriot, a humanitarian, a loyal friend; provided, of course, he really is dead.
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It is dangerous to be right in matters where established men are wrong.
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It is not sufficient to see and to know the beauty of a work. We must feel and be affected by it.
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We are all full of weakness and errors; let us mutually pardon each other our follies - it is the first law of nature.
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It is better to risk saving a guilty man than to condemn an innocent one.
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