Summary
This quote suggests that flattery, or insincere praise and admiration, has a detrimental effect on both the person being flattered and the person giving the flattery. It implies that when someone is excessively praised and receives flattery, they may become conceited or arrogant, losing touch with reality and their true qualities. Similarly, the giver of flattery may be tempted to compromise their integrity by saying things they don't truly mean or believe. Overall, the quote indicates that flattery can lead to corruption and a distortion of genuine relationships and personal values.
Topics
Flattery
By Edmund Burke