There are people who balk at small civilities on account…
“There are people who balk at small civilities on account of their manifest insincerity. ... It is better and more logical to accept all the polite phraseology which facilitates intercourse, and contributes to the sweetness of life. If we discarded the formal falsehoods which are the currency of conversation, we should not be one step nearer the vital things of truth.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Politeness, even if insincere, smooths social interaction; removing it could hinder communication.
In simple terms: Polite phrases help social life.
Key Takeaway
Balance sincerity with courtesy.
Themes
social etiquette
communication
truth
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
advisory
When to use this quote
- daily conversation
- business meetings
- diplomacy
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- When should honesty outweigh politeness?
- How does insincerity affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Excessive politeness can mask genuine issues.