Lewis Carroll: 'She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it).'

She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it).

The quote by Lewis Carroll, "She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it)," is a concise yet thought-provoking observation about the inherent contradictions within human nature. It encapsulates the common experience of having sound wisdom and guidance, yet struggling to put it into practice. The quote signifies the disconnect between knowing what is good for oneself and actually implementing it.This quote holds great significance in reminding us of the potential gap between knowledge and action. It highlights the irony of possessing the capability to offer oneself valuable insights but lacking the discipline or willingness to act upon them. It reflects the struggle many people face when it comes to making choices that align with their own well-being and self-interest. Carroll's quote serves as a relatable reminder that good advice alone is insufficient unless we cultivate the resilience and determination to follow it.To bring an unexpected philosophical concept to this article, let's explore the notion of "akrasia", coined by the ancient Greeks. Akrasia refers to the state of acting against one's better judgment or failing to do what one genuinely believes is the right thing. It recognizes that humans often possess conflicting desires and are susceptible to giving in to immediate gratification, even when they are fully aware of its detrimental long-term effects.The concept of akrasia adds depth to Carroll's quote, as it sheds light on the internal struggle that individuals often encounter. It acknowledges that intelligent and rational beings can acknowledge what is good, yet fail to act in accordance with that knowledge due to the sometimes overpowering influence of short-term desires or distractions.In comparing Carroll's quote and the concept of akrasia, we can recognize the universal nature of this human tendency. Many people experience moments where they give themselves excellent advice but fail to adhere to it. Both Carroll and akrasia address the complexity of human decision-making, questioning the extent to which we have control over our actions, and emphasizing the challenges we face in bridging the gap between knowledge and implementation.However, while Carroll's quote highlights the individual's struggle and acknowledges their capacity for self-reflection and insight, akrasia delves deeper into the psychological and philosophical implications of this phenomenon. It prompts us to consider whether we truly possess free will or if our actions are subject to the sway of impulse and desire.In conclusion, Lewis Carroll's quote, "She generally gave herself very good advice, (though she very seldom followed it)," encapsulates the relatable struggle many individuals face in acting upon their own valuable advice. This quote evokes introspection on the paradoxical nature of human decision-making. When paired with the concept of akrasia, it adds an extra layer of philosophical inquiry into the complexities of human behavior. Ultimately, it reminds us to exercise self-awareness, discipline, and perseverance in our pursuits of following our own well-intentioned advice.