Some have a species of instinct (the source of which they are ignorant of), and decide all questions that come before them by its aid, and always dec… - François de La Rochefoucauld

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Some have a species of instinct (the source of which they are ignorant of), and decide all questions that come before them by its aid, and always decide rightly. These follow their taste more than their intelligence, because they do not permit their temper and self-love to prevail over their natural discernment. All they do is in harmony, all is in the same spirit. This harmony makes them decide correctly on matters, and form a correct estimate of their value. But speaking generally there are few who have a taste fixed and independent of that of their friends, they follow example and fashion which generally form the standard of taste.

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About François de La Rochefoucauld

François VI, duc de La Rochefoucauld, le Prince de Marcillac (September 15 1613 – March 17 1680) was a noted French author of maxims and memoirs, as well as an example of the accomplished 17th-century nobleman.

Biography information from Wikiquote

Also Known As

Alternative Names: François VI, Duc de La Rochefoucauld, Prince de Marcillac François, Duc de La Rochefoucauld François, duc de La Rochefoucauld
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It is with true love as with ghosts and apparitions: Every one talks of it, and scarcely any one has seen it

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