Meaning: This quote by Francois Rochefoucauld, a 17th-century French author, reflects on the influence of age and experience on the nature of human inclinations. The quote suggests that the impulsive nature of young people, driven by the "heat of blood," leads them to frequently change their inclinations, while the older individuals, influenced by habit, tend to persist in their ways for a longer period.

The first part of the quote, "Heat of blood makes young people change their inclinations often," captures the idea that young people are often driven by passion and emotion. This can lead to frequent changes in their interests, desires, and beliefs, as they are more susceptible to the influence of their immediate feelings and experiences. Young individuals are often in the process of discovering their identities and forming their perspectives on the world, and this natural inclination to change and explore reflects their youthful energy and dynamism.

The second part of the quote, "habit makes old ones keep to theirs a great while," highlights the impact of habit and experience on older individuals. As people age, they tend to accumulate a wealth of experiences and develop habitual patterns of behavior and thinking. These established habits and routines can lead to a sense of stability and consistency in their inclinations. The quote suggests that older individuals are more likely to resist change and adhere to their long-established ways of thinking and acting, as they are guided by the inertia of habit and the comfort of familiarity.

Rochefoucauld's observation captures a fundamental aspect of human psychology and behavior. The contrast between the impulsiveness of youth and the stability of old age reflects the dynamic nature of human development and the influence of age-related factors on individual inclinations.

From a psychological perspective, the quote aligns with the concept of developmental stages and the impact of age on cognitive and emotional processes. Psychologists have long recognized that the transition from adolescence to adulthood is characterized by increased exploration, identity formation, and a heightened susceptibility to external influences. This aligns with the idea of the "heat of blood" driving young people to frequently change their inclinations as they navigate the complexities of growth and self-discovery.

On the other hand, the concept of habit and its influence on older individuals resonates with psychological theories related to the role of experience and learning in shaping behavior. Over time, individuals develop cognitive and behavioral routines that become deeply ingrained, leading to a greater resistance to change and a tendency to maintain established patterns of thinking and acting.

Furthermore, the quote also carries philosophical implications, particularly in relation to the nature of human agency and the interplay between free will and determinism. It raises questions about the extent to which individuals are in control of their inclinations, and how age-related factors such as passion and habit shape the course of human life.

In conclusion, Francois Rochefoucauld's quote encapsulates the dynamic interplay between youth and age, passion and habit, and the ever-changing nature of human inclinations. It provides valuable insight into the psychological and philosophical dimensions of human behavior, offering a thought-provoking reflection on the impact of age and experience on the propensity for change and stability in individuals' inclinations.