For every truth that enters the human consciousness and replaces a former delusion, there is a period of time when the delusion is obvious and the truth that is to replace it is clear, but, owing to to inertia, the delusion retains its power over people. What such times require is not so much a clarification of the truth, but a real life example that agrees with it.
I am always surprised at how readily kings come to believe that they are everything and the people that they are nothing.
— Montaigne
There is nothing more infectious than an example. It compels us to perform deeds which we would never have attempted without being influenced by it. And that is why associating with depraved, hedonistic and violent people ruins the soul. And vice versa.
The one who does not think for himself exists under the influence of another, who thinks for him. To surrender the possession of your thought to another is a more humiliating slavery than to surrender the possession of your body.
If you feel a desire to conform to what people around you are doing, stop at once and think whether or not it is reasonable to follow the common example. Great crimes and calamities, both private and public, happen only when people follow a suggestion without thinking it through.
The one who, following a false opinion, is afraid of what is not frightening and does not shudder before the truly terrifying, steps onto the evil path of ruin.
— The Dhammapada
Our principal and most difficult duty, as members of society, consists in being able to use the blessings of society without falling under its yoke; to be ready to perceive the thoughts and beliefs of others while firmly retaining the sacred right of our judgement; to perceive other people’s motivations while acting in accord with the demands of our soul; to act with others while following our own conscience; to be able to unite one’s respect for the opinions of others with our self-determination.
— Channing
An evil influence can only be destroyed by a good one. The most powerful way to exert good influence is to live a good life.
