“Do you wish people to think well of you? Don’t speak well of yourself.”
- June 19, 1623 – August 19, 1662
- French
- Mathematician, Physicist, Inventor, Philosopher, Theologian
table of contents
Quote
“Do you wish people to think well of you? Don’t speak well of yourself.”
Explanation
Pascal offers a sharp piece of practical wisdom rooted in human psychology: self-praise often undermines respect. When a person boasts about themselves, it triggers skepticism, envy, or irritation in others. Genuine admiration must be earned, not demanded, and it grows more naturally when one displays humility and restraint. Thus, if you truly wish others to think highly of you, let your actions speak—and let others, not yourself, deliver the praise.
This reflects Pascal’s deeper understanding in Pensées of human vanity, pride, and social dynamics. He believed that people are drawn to modesty because it signals inner confidence and wisdom, while self-promotion betrays a need for validation and a lack of self-awareness. Pascal’s advice is not just about manners—it’s about understanding how ego distorts relationships and how humility clears the way for sincerity and honor.
In today’s image-conscious world, where self-promotion is often encouraged in social media, business, and branding, Pascal’s counsel cuts against the grain. While some degree of self-assertion may be necessary, overemphasis on oneself often backfires, leading to suspicion rather than respect. His quote remains a timeless reminder that true dignity is quiet, and real influence comes from character, not from self-declaration.
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