September 20, 2026
The Maxim Paradox
Could you define the word “maxim” off the top of your head?
I couldn’t.
So I looked it up:
A maxim is a short, memorable statement that expresses a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct. Derived from the Latin word maxima (meaning “greatest,” as in a premise of ultimate importance), maxims serve as practical guidelines for life, ethics, and decision-making.
Hm...
A “premise of ultimate importance” that serves as a “practical guideline for life”?
So...
They’re kinda like clichés about how you should live your life.
Which, in theory, would be quite useful.
But in practice...
Maxims contradict each other all the time!
- “Look before you leap.” vs “He who hesitates is lost.”
- “Better safe than sorry.” vs “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
- “Birds of a feather flock together.” vs “Opposites attract.”
- “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.” vs “Out of sight, out of mind.”
- “The more the merrier.” vs “Two’s company, three’s a crowd.”
- “Many hands make light work.” vs “Too many cooks spoil the broth.”
- “Seek and ye shall find.” vs “Good things come to those who wait.”
- “Knowledge is power.” vs “Ignorance is bliss.”
- “The pen is mightier than the sword.” vs “Actions speak louder than words.”
Here’s the thing...
I probably wouldn’t disagree with any of these statements on their own.
But when I see each juxtaposed against its counterpoint, I have to admit that they must be contextual and are not absolute truths.
Which forces me to question whether any are really a “premise of ultimate importance” that serves as a “practical guideline for life”.
What’s the moral of the story?
If/when someone throws an “indisputable” cliché at you in an effort to influence your actions, don’t give in without a fight.
Yours,
—J