Upon the subjects of which I have treated, I have spoken…
“Upon the subjects of which I have treated, I have spoken as I have thought. I may be wrong in regard to any or all of them; but, holding it a sound maxim that it is better only sometimes to be right than at all times to be wrong, so soon as I discover my opinions to be erroneous, I shall be ready to renounce them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He values truth over consistency, willing to abandon mistaken beliefs when proven wrong.
In simple terms: Truth beats stubbornness.
Key Takeaway
Be ready to change your mind.
Themes
integrity
humility
open‑mindedness
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political debate
- scientific research
- personal growth
- leadership decisions
Key Concepts
self‑correction
epistemic humility
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you clung to a belief despite evidence?
- How can you signal openness without losing credibility?
A Different Perspective
Changing views can be seen as weakness if not communicated well.