Great is truth, but still greater, from a practical point…
“Great is truth, but still greater, from a practical point of view, is silence about truth. By simply not mentioning certain subjects... totalitarian propagandists have influenced opinion much more effectively than they could have by the most eloquent denunciations.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Silence can be more powerful than speaking, especially when truth is suppressed; omission can shape opinion more effectively than direct criticism.
In simple terms: Silence can hide truth better than words.
Key Takeaway
Use restraint to protect truth.
Themes
censorship
power
truth
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- authoritarian regimes
- media analysis
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
political control
propaganda
silence
Questions to Reflect On
- When is silence justified?
- How can we responsibly with truth?
A Different Perspective
Silence may also enable denial or complicity.