People in general," he said, "only ask advice not to follow it; or if they do follow it, it is for the sake of having someone to blame for having given it.
In "The Three Musketeers," author Alexandre Dumas explores the nature of people's relationship with advice. The character suggests that individuals often seek guidance not with the intention of acting on it, but rather to have a source to blame when things go wrong. This reflects a broader human tendency to dodge responsibility for one’s decisions.
This observation highlights a critical perspective on accountability and the motivations behind seeking counsel. It implies that people value the safety net of an authority figure's opinion, which allows them to deflect criticism and responsibility, ultimately questioning the sincerity of their request for advice in the first place.