The first principle is that you must not fool yourself, and you are the easiest person to fool.
In plain words
The easiest person to fool is you, so check yourself first.
Where these words come from
- 93% sureThese words were traced back to where they first appeared. That source is listed below.
- "Cargo Cult Science," Caltech commencement address (1974); also in Surely You're Joking, Mr. Feynman!, p. 343
- 1974
More from Richard Feynman
See allYou have no responsibility to live up to what other people think you ought to accomplish.
Richard FeynmanStudy hard what interests you the most, in the most undisciplined, irreverent, and original manner possible.Richard FeynmanI was born not knowing and have had only a little time to change that here and there.Richard Feynman
Richard FeynmanStudy hard what interests you the most, in the most undisciplined, irreverent, and original manner possible.Richard FeynmanI was born not knowing and have had only a little time to change that here and there.Richard FeynmanMore on wisdom
In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.
Sun TzuThe wound is the place where the light enters you.
RumiYou have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
Marcus AureliusWaste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.Marcus AureliusAn unexamined life is not worth living.
SocratesWonder is the feeling of a philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.
Plato
Sun TzuThe wound is the place where the light enters you.RumiYou have power over your mind, not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.Marcus AureliusWaste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.Marcus AureliusAn unexamined life is not worth living.SocratesWonder is the feeling of a philosopher, and philosophy begins in wonder.Plato