“Men often complain of their memory, but never of their judgment.”Jean de La Bruyère · Caracterele · 1688 · Despre om, 51
People readily admit they have forgotten, but they refuse to admit they have misjudged.
La Bruyère points out an asymmetry in self-criticism. Memory is seen as a passive tool, easy to blame when it fails or forgets. Judgment, however, is felt as a personal faculty, almost an extension of the self, which we instinctively defend. For instance, if we miss an appointment, we say our mind wandered; if we make a poor decision, we find external excuses.
Why it matters It helps us notice when we avoid questioning our own beliefs and to be more honest with ourselves instead of blaming forgetfulness.