Meaning: The quote "Prejudices are not easily got rid of as an old coat which is no longer thought of" by Nicolas Malebranche, a French philosopher, reflects the enduring nature of prejudices and the difficulty in overcoming them. Malebranche lived in the 17th century and was known for his works on metaphysics, theology, and philosophy of mind. In this quote, he captures the idea that prejudices, like an old coat, can become ingrained in our thinking and behavior, making them challenging to discard.

Prejudices refer to preconceived opinions that are not based on reason or actual experience. They often stem from stereotypes, cultural conditioning, or misinformation, and can lead to biased attitudes and discriminatory behavior. Malebranche's comparison of prejudices to an old coat suggests that they can become so familiar and comfortable that people may not even realize they are carrying them. Just as an old coat may go unnoticed even though it is still being worn, prejudices can persist in individuals and societies without conscious awareness.

The metaphor of an old coat also conveys the idea that prejudices can be deeply entrenched, much like habits or ingrained beliefs. Just as it takes effort to discard an old coat that has become a part of one's wardrobe, getting rid of prejudices requires deliberate and sustained effort. Malebranche's choice of imagery highlights the resilience of prejudices and the challenge of shedding them.

Malebranche's quote prompts reflection on the persistence of prejudices across different contexts and time periods. Prejudices can manifest in various forms, such as racial, gender, religious, or cultural biases, and they can influence individuals' perceptions and interactions with others. The quote serves as a reminder that prejudices are not easily discarded or forgotten; they often linger beneath the surface, affecting attitudes and behaviors even when individuals may not be consciously aware of their presence.

Furthermore, the comparison to an old coat also raises the question of how prejudices are acquired and perpetuated. Like an old coat that may have been passed down through generations or acquired through personal experiences, prejudices can be inherited from family, influenced by societal norms, or shaped by media and educational systems. Malebranche's quote underscores the need to critically examine the origins and effects of prejudices in order to address and overcome them.

In contemporary society, the quote remains relevant as prejudices continue to impact individuals and communities. Efforts to confront and dismantle prejudices require ongoing education, dialogue, and advocacy for social justice. Malebranche's quote serves as a call to action, reminding us of the persistent nature of prejudices and the importance of actively working to challenge and unlearn them.

In conclusion, Nicolas Malebranche's quote "Prejudices are not easily got rid of as an old coat which is no longer thought of" encapsulates the enduring nature of prejudices and the difficulty in overcoming them. By likening prejudices to an old coat that has become ingrained and unnoticed, Malebranche highlights the challenge of discarding deeply entrenched biases. The quote prompts reflection on the origins and impact of prejudices while underscoring the ongoing need for conscious efforts to confront and address them in society.