Meaning: This quote by François de La Rochefoucauld, a 17th-century French writer and moralist, reflects on the human tendency towards opinionation and the reluctance to believe in things that are beyond our comprehension. Rochefoucauld was known for his astute observations on human behavior and his maxims, which were short, pithy statements that captured universal truths about human nature.

The quote suggests that it is the weakness and narrowness of the human mind that leads people to be opinionated. In other words, when individuals lack the capacity to fully understand complex ideas or concepts, they often form strong opinions based on limited knowledge or understanding. This tendency can be attributed to a combination of intellectual limitations and emotional biases that cloud our judgment.

Rochefoucauld's assertion about the relationship between weakness of mind and opinionation resonates with the broader theme of intellectual humility and the recognition of the limits of human knowledge. It highlights the inherent difficulty humans face when confronted with ideas or truths that challenge their preconceived notions or beliefs. The discomfort of grappling with concepts that exceed our cognitive capacity can lead to the rejection or dismissal of those ideas, as it is often easier to cling to familiar beliefs than to confront the discomfort of uncertainty.

Furthermore, the quote touches upon the interconnectedness of comprehension and belief. Rochefoucauld suggests that humans are reluctant to believe in things they cannot comprehend, implying that our beliefs are often anchored in our ability to understand or rationalize them. This insight underscores the human inclination to seek cognitive coherence and consistency in our beliefs, favoring ideas that align with our existing mental frameworks.

Rochefoucauld's observation also speaks to the psychological phenomenon of cognitive dissonance, wherein individuals experience discomfort when confronted with conflicting beliefs or information. In such instances, people may double down on their existing beliefs, rejecting anything that challenges their understanding in order to preserve a sense of mental equilibrium.

The quote encourages introspection and self-awareness, prompting individuals to examine the roots of their opinions and beliefs. It serves as a reminder of the importance of intellectual humility and open-mindedness, urging people to acknowledge the limitations of their own understanding and to approach unfamiliar or complex ideas with curiosity rather than aversion.

In conclusion, François de La Rochefoucauld's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the relationship between the weaknesses of the human mind, opinionation, and the reluctance to believe in what we cannot comprehend. It serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human cognition and the challenges inherent in navigating the tension between our cognitive limitations and the pursuit of understanding. By acknowledging the influence of our mental constraints on our opinions and beliefs, we may cultivate greater intellectual humility and openness to the unfamiliar, ultimately enriching our capacity for growth and learning.