The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are… — Richard Feynman · Smartyfair

The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool.

Richard Feynman1918–1988 · scientist · 1900s USARichard Feynman was a physicist known for explaining hard science in fun, easy-to-understand ways.3 quotes

Source foundWisdom1900s

In plain words

The easiest person to fool is you, so check yourself first.

Look up a word

Where these words come from

How sure this is: 93% sureThese words were traced back to where they first appeared. That source is listed below.
What turned up: "Cargo Cult Science," Caltech commencement address (1974); also in Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!, p. 343
Occasion: 1974
Sources checked: calteches.library.caltech.eduChecked using claude-sonnet-5, 20 August 2026
en.wikiquote.orgChecked using claude-sonnet-5, 20 August 2026

Nothing made from these words yet — Storyfaire is where they get made.

More on wisdom

In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.

Sun Tzu The wound is the place where the light enters you.

Rumi You have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.

Marcus Aurelius Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.

Marcus Aurelius An unexamined life is not worth living.

Socrates Wonder is the feeling of a philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.

More science

Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood.

Marie Curie One never notices what has been done; one can only see what remains to be done.

Marie Curie Be less curious about people and more curious about ideas.

Marie Curie Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.

Albert Einstein The important thing is not to stop questioning.

Albert Einstein Imagination is more important than knowledge.

Albert Einstein