Buffon: Nothing is as contagious as a mistake supported by a famous name.
This quote by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, highlights the powerful influence that authority and reputation can have on public perception and behavior. It suggests that when a well-known or respected individual makes a mistake, it tends to spread quickly and can be widely accepted or imitated by others. The underlying idea is that people often rely on the credibility of famous figures, leading them to adopt incorrect beliefs or practices simply because they are associated with a reputable name. This reflects a cautionary tale about the importance of critical thinking and the need to question assertions, even when they come from admired sources.
Quote By: Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon