We better know there is a fire whence we see much smoke…
“We better know there is a fire whence we see much smoke rising than we could know it by one or two witnesses swearing to it. The witnesses may commit perjury, but the smoke cannot.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The statement warns that indirect evidence (smoke) is more reliable than limited eyewitness testimony, which may be false, emphasizing the need for corroborating signs.
In simple terms: Smoke is a better proof than a few witnesses.
Key Takeaway
Seek multiple sources before concluding.
Themes
evidence
reliability
truth
critical thinking
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- legal investigations
- journalism
- historical research
Key Concepts
Inductive reasoning
skepticism
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence do you trust most?
- How can you verify eyewitness accounts?
A Different Perspective
Witnesses can be biased or dishonest.