“How sad it is that these great gentlemen should believe what anyone tells them and do not choose to judge for themselves! But it is always so.”
- January 27, 1756 – December 5, 1791
- Born in Salzburg (Austria)
- Composer
- Left behind many masterpieces such as “The Marriage of Figaro,” “Don Giovanni,” and “The Magic Flute”
Quote
“How sad it is that these great gentlemen should believe what anyone tells them and do not choose to judge for themselves! But it is always so.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mozart expresses his disappointment with individuals in positions of power or authority who lack the independent judgment to think critically for themselves. He is frustrated by the tendency of these “great gentlemen” to simply believe others without questioning or evaluating the information. This commentary reflects Mozart’s recognition of the human tendency to follow authority blindly rather than engaging in deeper analysis or reflection. The phrase “it is always so” suggests a sense of resignation, as if he’s acknowledging that this behavior is not just common, but pervasive across society, especially among those with power.
Historically, this quote likely refers to the aristocracy and patrons Mozart often interacted with throughout his career. Many composers during his time were reliant on the support of nobles and royalty for their livelihoods, and this created a dynamic where composers like Mozart had little power to influence decisions unless their patrons actively took an interest in their work. This disconnect between the educated or talented individual and the elite’s reliance on hearsay or superficial judgment may have been a point of frustration for Mozart, who, despite his genius, often struggled to gain consistent recognition or fair treatment from those in charge.
In modern times, this sentiment can still be seen in the way society often follows trends or popular opinion without critical thought, particularly in areas such as politics, media, and consumerism. The influence of authority figures or public figures on public perception is still powerful, and many people may accept information at face value without seeking to evaluate it independently. Mozart’s words remind us of the importance of critical thinking, self-education, and the courage to challenge prevailing narratives in order to promote true progress and understanding in society.
