If you would inform, a positive and dogmatic manner in advancing your sentiments may provoke contradiction and prevent a candid attention. If you wish information and improvement from the knowledge of others, and yet at the same time express yourself as firmly fixed in your present opinions, modest, sensible men, who do not love disputation, will probably leave you undisturbed in the possession of your error.

Summary

This quote suggests that when seeking information and knowledge from others, it is important to approach the conversation with an open mind and a willingness to consider alternative perspectives. If one expresses their opinions in a strong and rigid manner, they may provoke contradiction and hinder open dialogue. By being more modest and receptive to different ideas, one is more likely to attract individuals who are willing to share their knowledge and help them improve. In contrast, if someone appears steadfast in their own beliefs, those who prefer to avoid arguments may choose not to challenge their views, leaving them stuck in their errors.

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