Quote by Alexander Pope

Fondly we think we honor merit then, When we but praise ourselves in other men.

Fondly we think we honor merit then, When we but praise ours

Summary

This quote by Alexander Pope suggests that our recognition of merit in others often stems from our own desire for self-validation. We tend to praise and admire those who possess qualities or achievements that we wish to possess ourselves, making our praise more self-serving than purely altruistic. Pope's words hint at the complex nature of human praise, highlighting how our appreciation of others can be muddled by our own ego and desire for personal advancement.

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By Alexander Pope

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