You should aim to be independent of any one vote, of any one fashion, of any one century

You should aim to be independent of any one vote, of any one fashion, of any one century

Baltasar Gracian, a Spanish Jesuit and baroque prose writer, is known for his philosophical works that emphasize the importance of self-reliance and independence. In his book "The Art of Worldly Wisdom," Gracian advises his readers to aim to be independent of any one vote, of any one fashion, of any one century. This advice is particularly relevant in today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, where trends and opinions can shift rapidly.

Gracian's emphasis on independence of any one vote suggests that individuals should not be swayed by popular opinion or the majority vote. Instead, he encourages his readers to think for themselves and make decisions based on their own values and beliefs. By being independent of any one vote, individuals can avoid being influenced by the crowd mentality and make choices that align with their own principles.

Similarly, Gracian's advice to be independent of any one fashion highlights the importance of not being swayed by passing trends or fads. In a society that is constantly bombarded with new styles and products, it can be easy to get caught up in the latest craze. However, Gracian reminds us that true independence comes from staying true to ourselves and not being swayed by external influences.

Gracian's call to be independent of any one century speaks to the timeless nature of his wisdom. While the world may change and evolve over time, the principles of self-reliance and independence remain constant. By transcending the limitations of any one era, individuals can tap into a deeper sense of self-awareness and inner strength.