maxims

Maxims are concise statements that express general truths, practical guidelines, or moral principles. They are designed to guide conduct and judgment in everyday life, often in a single memorable sentence. In distinction from proverbs, which are traditional sayings that circulate within communities, and from aphorisms, which are brief, witty statements that reveal a broader truth, maxims tend to be prescriptive or normative: they tell one how to behave or what to value.

Historically, maxims appear in philosophy, religious and moral literature, and political treatises, where authors sought compact statements to summarize wisdom. Notable collections include La Rochefoucauld's Maxims, which analyze motives behind behavior, and the many moral maxims published in early modern almanacs such as Poor Richard's Almanack attributed to Benjamin Franklin. Proverbs and sayings from various cultures also function as maxims when used to encapsulate rules of conduct, for example "Honesty is the best policy" or "Actions speak louder than words," though exact attribution may vary.

Form and tone: maxims are typically short, with a universalizing claim and little elaboration. They rely on generalization and sometimes metaphor to remain memorable. Their effectiveness lies in synthesis rather than proof; they are often used as heuristics rather than strict rules.

Critique: maxims can oversimplify complex situations, ignore exceptions, or reflect cultural biases. They should be weighed with context, experience, and evidence, rather than accepted uncritically.