Where wisdom is called for, force is of little use.
Interpretation
Wisdom is more effective than physical force in resolving issues.
This quote by Herodotus emphasizes the importance of wisdom over brute strength in making decisions and solving problems. It suggests that in situations requiring careful thought and understanding, using force is not only ineffective but may also lead to undesirable outcomes, highlighting the value of knowledge and reason in human interactions.
In practice
During a debate on policy, this quote can be used to advocate for thoughtful discussion over aggressive tactics.
The Scythians take kannabis seed, creep in under the felts, and throw it on the red-hot stones. It smolders and sends up such billows of steam-smoke that no Greek vapor bath can surpass it. The Scythians howl with joy in these vapor-baths, which serve them instead of bathing, for they never wash their bodies with water.
The man who has planned badly, if fortune is on his side, may have had a stroke of luck; but his plan was a bad one nonetheless.
Men trust their ears less than their eyes.
Great deeds are usually wrought at great risks.
The worst pain a man can have is to know much and be impotent to act.
All men's gains are the fruit of venturing.
Who then is free? The wise man who can govern himself.
Take care of yourself - you never know when the world will need you.
if we focus on what's ugly, we attract more ugliness into our thoughts, and then into our emotions, and ultimately into our lives
Atticus said that Jem was trying hard to forget something, but what he was really doing was storing it away for a while, until enough time passed. Then he would be able to think about it and sort things out. When he was able to think about it, Jem would be himself again.
For each and every person, our Lord and Master provides sustenance. Why are you so afraid, O mind? The flamingos fly hundreds of miles, leaving their young ones behind. Who feeds them, and who teaches them to feed themselves? Have you ever thought of this in your mind?
Silence is a source of great strength.
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