PODG #3

“The reason we all like to think so well of others is that we are all afraid for ourselves” (54).

                Lord Henry recites this quote after Basil tells him that he is much better than he thinks. This statement is laughable to Henry. Henry believes that people only compliment others in the hope of saving themselves in some way, which is interesting to think about. Does someone only compliment another when they want something? Do people always have their own interest at heart? Lord Henry seems to believe this though there are bound to be many others that oppose this idea. Some will say that they give compliments to others just because it is true. They see a positive attribute and comment on it. This viewpoint is completely valid. It seems that many of the sweeping statements Lord Henry makes must be taken with a grain of salt. The statements apply to many situations, but they are not relevant to every situation. Some will very much agree that they use flattery for gain, and others will strongly oppose this statement. However, it must be admitted that in the things that Lord Henry blurts out, there is always some truth to be found.