Perhaps the excellence of aphorisms consists not so much in the expression of some rare or abstruse sentiment, as in the comprehension of some obvious and useful truth in a few words.We frequently fall into error and folly, not because the true principles of action are not known, but because, for a time, they are not remembered; and he may therefore be justly numbered among the benefactors of mankind who contracts the great rules of life into short sentences, that may be easily impressed on the memory, and taught by frequent recollection to recur habitually to the mind.

Summary

This quote suggests that aphorisms, or concise and insightful statements, hold value not for their complexity or rarity, but for their ability to capture obvious and practical truths succinctly. The author argues that people often make mistakes and act foolishly not because they are unaware of the correct principles of action, but because they forget them temporarily. Therefore, those who condensed these fundamental principles of life into short sentences are true benefactors as they facilitate easy memorization and frequent recollection, making them habitual reminders of guidance for our minds.

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