proverb · Legacy record
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.
The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.
Historical period not yet established
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The saying contrasts a person certain of their own way with a wise listener to advice. It values openness to another perspective over self-approval alone.
What the words are saying
In his own eyes locates the first judgment within the person making it. A useful application can encourage considering reasons without assuming all advice is sound or must be followed. Listening and deciding thoughtfully are distinct from unquestioning obedience.
Everyday example
Someone considers an objection to their plan and checks whether its reasons warrant a change.
When to use it
Use it to discuss openness to relevant reasons and guidance.
Put a useful idea into practice: try the free seven-day guide ↗
What it does not mean
Advice may be unsuitable, and listening does not require agreement.
Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Historical period not yet established
No sufficiently supported historical placement has been established. Import and download dates are not treated as composition dates. - Recorded source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 152; PDF page 26
A collection's publication date can be later than the words it records.