“Some are made modest by great praise, others insolent.”
- October 15, 1844 – August 25, 1900
- Born in Germany
- Philosopher, poet, and classical philologist
- With works such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “The Genealogy of Morals,” he questioned traditional morality, religion, and truth, and had a major impact on modern philosophy.
Quote
“Some are made modest by great praise, others insolent.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche explores the psychological effects of praise and how it can influence individuals in very different ways. For some, great praise leads to a sense of humility and modesty, perhaps because they are deeply aware of the responsibility that comes with recognition and are cautious not to let it inflate their ego. On the other hand, for others, praise can have the opposite effect—it can inflate their self-importance, making them insolent or arrogant, believing that they are above others or deserving of special treatment. Nietzsche suggests that the way praise impacts a person depends on their character, self-awareness, and how they relate to their own worth.
Historically, Nietzsche critiqued the way that society often encourages certain moral virtues, like modesty, which can sometimes lead to self-suppression or a lack of self-assertion. He was particularly critical of any value or virtue that diminished the individual’s strength, creativity, or will to power. At the same time, he also rejected over-inflated egos and arrogance, especially when driven by external validation like praise, which could lead to a false sense of superiority. Nietzsche’s insight here is a reminder that authentic greatness comes not from the praise one receives, but from self-mastery and individual empowerment, grounded in true values rather than the reactions of others.
In modern contexts, this quote can be applied to how people react to recognition and success in today’s world. Whether in careers, social media, or public life, praise can either humble or embolden individuals. Nietzsche’s words challenge us to reflect on how we respond to praise and recognition—do we let it hinder our growth and inflame our ego, or does it lead us to a deeper understanding of humility and responsibility? Ultimately, the key is in understanding our own motivation and values, and using external recognition as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth, rather than allowing it to shape our identity.
