Quote by Charles Horton Cooley
Simplicity is a pleasant thing in children, or at any age, but it is not necessarily admirable, nor is affectation altogether a thing of evil. To be normal, to be at home in the world, with a prospect of power, usefulness, or success, the person must have that imaginative insight into other minds that underlies tact and savoir-faire, morality and beneficence. This insight involves sophistication, some understanding and sharing of the clandestine impulses of human nature. A simplicity that is merely the lack of this insight indicates a sort of defect.
Summary
This quote emphasizes that while simplicity in children can be pleasant, it is not inherently admirable. Similarly, affectation is not entirely negative. To lead a normal and successful life, one needs the imaginative understanding of others that empowers tact, savoir-faire, morality, and kindness. This understanding involves sophistication and a grasp of the hidden facets of human nature. Therefore, a simplicity that lacks this insight signifies a kind of deficiency. In essence, the quote highlights the importance of a balanced and nuanced comprehension of the complexities of human behavior for personal growth and effectiveness in society.
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