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When the conduct of men is designed to be influenced…

“When the conduct of men is designed to be influenced, persuasion, kind, unassuming persuasion, should ever be adopted. It is an old and a true maxim, that 'a drop of honey catches more flies than a gallon of gall.'” quote by Abraham Lincoln
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“When the conduct of men is designed to be influenced, persuasion, kind, unassuming persuasion, should ever be adopted. It is an old and a true maxim, that 'a drop of honey catches more flies than a gallon of gall.'”

Abraham Lincoln

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Gentle persuasion is more effective than harsh tactics; kindness wins more support.

In simple terms: Kindness persuades better than force.

Key Takeaway

Use gentle persuasion to influence others.

Themes

communication kindness influence

Mood

thoughtful calm

Type

ethical practical

When to use this quote

  • political campaigning
  • sales
  • conflict resolution
  • daily interactions

Key Concepts

rhetoric psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is gentle persuasion insufficient?
  • How can you balance firmness with kindness?
A Different Perspective

Kindness can be seen as weakness.

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