Meaning: The quote "We are so used to dissembling with others that in time we come to deceive and dissemble with ourselves" by François de La Rochefoucauld reflects on the human tendency to engage in deception not only with others but also with ourselves. François de La Rochefoucauld was a French author of maxims and memoirs, widely regarded as one of the greatest French moralists. His writings often delve into the complexities of human nature, and this quote is no exception.

The quote suggests that our habitual tendency to deceive or dissemble with others can eventually lead us to deceive ourselves. It implies that the act of dissembling, or concealing one's true motives or feelings, becomes so ingrained in our interactions with others that it ultimately affects our own perception of reality. This idea is rooted in the concept of self-deception, where individuals may become so accustomed to presenting a false image to others that they begin to believe in that false image themselves.

One interpretation of this quote is that it highlights the interconnectedness of our external and internal worlds. The deception we practice in our interactions with others gradually seeps into our own self-perception, blurring the line between truth and falsehood. This can lead to a distorted sense of self-awareness and a lack of authenticity in our relationships with both others and ourselves.

From a psychological perspective, this quote speaks to the concept of cognitive dissonance, where individuals experience discomfort when their beliefs or actions are inconsistent with one another. In an attempt to reduce this dissonance, individuals may engage in self-deception by rationalizing their behaviors or beliefs. Over time, this self-deception can become deeply ingrained, leading to a disconnect between one's true thoughts and behaviors and the image they present to the world.

In a broader societal context, the quote also sheds light on the prevalence of duplicity and insincerity in human interactions. In a world where social norms and expectations often dictate how we present ourselves to others, individuals may feel compelled to mask their true thoughts and emotions, leading to a culture of dissembling and deception. This can create an environment in which authenticity and genuine connection become increasingly rare, further perpetuating the cycle of self-deception.

The quote serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences of habitual dissembling and deception. It urges individuals to critically examine their own behaviors and motives, and to strive for greater honesty and authenticity in their interactions with others and themselves. By acknowledging the tendency towards self-deception that may arise from habitual dissembling, individuals can work towards fostering genuine connections and a more truthful understanding of themselves.

In conclusion, François de La Rochefoucauld's quote "We are so used to dissembling with others that in time we come to deceive and dissemble with ourselves" offers a thought-provoking exploration of the complex interplay between external deception and internal self-deception. It encourages introspection and self-awareness, challenging individuals to confront the implications of their habitual dissembling and strive for greater authenticity in their interactions with others and themselves.