There are many shining qualities on the mind of man but none so useful as discretion. It is this which gives a value to all the rest, and sets them at work in their proper places, and turns them to the advantage of their possessor. Without it, learning is pedantry wit, impertinence virtue itself looks like weakness and the best parts only qualify a man to be more sprightly in errors, and active to his own prejudice. Though a man has all other perfections and wants discretion, he will be of no great consequence in the world but if he has this single talent in perfection, and but a common share of others, he may do what he pleases in his station of life.
More Quotes from Joseph Addison:
Their is no defense against criticism except obscurity.Joseph Addison
Prejudice and self-sufficiency naturally proceed from inexperience of the world, and ignorance of mankind.
Joseph Addison
Tradition is an important help to history, but its statements should be carefully scrutinized before we rely on them
Joseph Addison
Modesty is not only an ornament, but also a guard to virtue.
Joseph Addison
The woman that deliberates is lost.
Joseph Addison
A just and reasonable modesty does not only recommend eloquence, but sets off every great talent which a man can be possessed of.
Joseph Addison
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Based on Topics: Education Quotes, Error & Mistake Quotes, Learning Quotes, Life Quotes, Man Quotes, Mind Quotes, Perfection Quotes, Place Quotes, Prejudice Quotes, Value Quotes, Wit Quotes, Work & Career Quotes, World QuotesBased on Keywords: impertinence, pedantry, perfections, sprightly
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