Proverbs and idioms seem to short-circuit logical pathways in the brain. We can see this in how simply mentioning an idiom or a proverb sometimes results in resolving an argument or is used as evidence in a discussion.
My observation is that some cultures are more susceptible to this than others. Nonetheless, there is a universal human attraction to short popular rhyming sayings.
I think it’s an interesting cognitive bias that is worth exploring and building an awareness of.
My favorite way to show the irrelevance of idioms or proverbs to a discussion is to look for a counter popular saying. I think this proves that idioms or proverbs cannot provide factual value and work only on an emotional level.
Below is a list of my favorite contradicting idioms:
Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Out of sight, out of mind.
Opposites attract. Birds of a feather flock together.
You're never too old to learn. You can't teach an old dog new tricks.
Don't change horses midstream. Variety is the spice of life.
No pain, no gain. Better to be safe than sorry.
Many hands make light work. Too many chefs in the kitchen.
The early bird gets the worm. Haste makes waste.
Familiarity breeds contempt. Home is where the heart is.
Great minds think alike. Fools seldom differ.
Laugh and the world laughs with you; weep and you weep alone. Misery loves company.
Actions speak louder than words. The pen is mightier than the sword.
In conclusion, with some interpretation it’s possible to find a saying with a counter meaning for any proverb or idiom. What this means is that context is key, or if you prefer a short common phrase, the devil is in the details.