Prejudices are what fools use for reason.
VoltaireRead
The progress of rivers to the ocean is not so rapid as that of man to error.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans often make mistakes at a quicker pace than nature's slow and steady progress.
In this quote, Voltaire highlights the inherent tendency of human beings to err and make wrong choices more rapidly than the natural world evolves. It reflects on the impulsiveness and fallibility of mankind, suggesting that while natural processes take their time, human mistakes are frequent and swift, reminding us of the importance of self-awareness and reflection.
Themes
ErrorProgressHuman NatureMistakesWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a philosophy class discussing human fallibility.
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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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