Quote by Ernest Dimnet
Americans cannot realize how many chances for mental improvement they lose by their inveterate habit of keeping six conversations when there are twelve in the room.
Summary
This quote suggests that Americans tend to engage in multiple conversations simultaneously, even when there are more meaningful discussions happening around them. By constantly talking over one another, they miss out on the opportunity for intellectual growth and deeper exchange of ideas. This behavior is portrayed as a habit, indicating that it is deeply ingrained within the culture and hindering the potential for mental improvement. The quote serves as a critique of American conversational habits and emphasizes the importance of attentiveness and active listening for personal development.