If fools went not to market, bad ware would not be sold.

Meaning: Foolish buyers create demand for inferior goods, enabling unscrupulous sellers to profit from deception.

Origin: From 'A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases' (1870). Public domain.

More proverbs about Morality

• Of all the crafts honesty is the master-craft. — Honesty forms the foundation enabling all other virtues and skills to function with genui…
• Good measure is a merry mean. — Moderation in quantity—whether food, drink, or spending—brings contentment without excess…
• It's good to be merry and wise. — Balancing joy with sound judgment ensures happiness doesn't lead to foolish decisions or…
• It is good to be merry at meat. — Nourishment tastes better and digests easier when eaten with joy rather than worry or has…
• Modesty is the handmaid of virtue. — Humble self-awareness prevents pride from corrupting your moral character and actions.
• A good name is better than riches. — Reputation and character endure longer than wealth and provide greater security across li…

← Back to Proverbs

Loading the full interactive collection…