Aphorism

Aphorism (from the Greek αφοριζειν, to define), literally a distinction or a definition (see the Online Etymology Dictionary entry), is a term used to describe a principle expressed tersely in a few telling words or any general truth conveyed in a short and pithy sentence, in such a way that when once heard it is unlikely to pass from the memory.

Aphorism and society

In a number of cultures, such as Samuel Johnson's England and tribal societies throughout the world, the ability to spontaneously produce aphoristic sayings at exactly the right moment is a key determinant of social status.

Related Topics:
Samuel Johnson - Tribal

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Many societies have traditional sages or culture heroes to whom aphorisms are commonly attributed, such as the Seven Sages of Greece or King Solomon.

Related Topics:
Culture hero - Seven Sages of Greece - King Solomon

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