Maxims

Rating:
Summary: Self- love is our essence
Review: These maxims- aphorisms are a Western classic .In one way they look with a cynical eye at this vain self - aggrandizing creature the human being and do their best to debunk his illusions. On the other they are written with such grace , point and wit that they amuse and give the reader pleasure.
If there is one criticism it is that on the whole Rouchefoucaud has a very limited view of mankind and human nature. We may not all be as wonderful as we think, but humanity is far better and good in many ways than is seen in these aphorisms.

Rating:
Summary: A classic of cynicism. Excellent food for thought.
Review: This book is a classic of cynicism. It is an exercise in discovering the true motivations of people of La Rouchefoucauld's time. Whether you agree or disagree with the maxims, I think you will gain much by reading them and thinking about them.