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Meaning
The quote says that social forces often favor average or middle-level standards over exceptional ability. It suggests that, over time, ordinary views and habits can become more dominant than excellence. The wording is critical of how mediocrity can gain influence among people.
When It Was Said
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Who It Was Said To
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Source
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Original Language & Translation
Originally said in English.
Did They Really Say It?
Listed as attributed, with the phrase found on other Wikiquote pages only.
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About John Stuart Mill
English philosopher, political economist, and politician
John Stuart Mill was an English philosopher, political economist, and politician. A major figure in nineteenth-century liberal thought, he is known for shaping modern ideas about individual freedom and limits on state and social control. He argued for liberty as a protection for the individual, and is closely associated with the Harm principle. Mill also supported proportional representation, the emancipation of women, and the growth of labour organisations and farm cooperatives. His work is often placed within both classical liberal and social liberal traditions.
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READ THE SOURCE
Books by John Stuart Mill
On Liberty
1863
Utilitarianism
1891
Principles of Political Economy
1868
Autobiography
1874
An Examination of Sir William Hamilton's Philosophy
1865