“Seek not the favor of the multitude; it is seldom got by honest and lawful means.”
— Immanuel Kant
Simplified Meaning:
Trying to please a large group of people often leads to trouble because it usually involves bending the rules or not being truthful. For example, imagine a student who wants to be popular at school. If they focus only on being liked by everyone, they might start cheating on tests to seem smart, or spreading rumors to pull others down. In the end, they might gain popularity but at the cost of their integrity and true friendships. Instead, it's better to be honest and do what is right, even if it doesn't make you popular. In the long run, people respect those who stay true to their values. For instance, a historical figure like Abraham Lincoln remained dedicated to his principles and earned lasting respect, even though he faced a lot of opposition in his time. So, focus on being good and honest, rather than just being liked by everyone. This way, you build genuine relationships and long-term success.