Be as decent as you can. Don't believe without evidence…
“Be as decent as you can. Don't believe without evidence. Treat things divine with marked respect — don't have anything to do with them. Do not trust humanity without collateral security; it will play you some scurvy trick. Remember that it hurts no one to be treated as an enemy entitled to respect until he shall prove himself a friend worthy of affection. Cultivate a taste for distasteful truths. And, finally, most important of all, endeavor to see things as they are, not as they ought to be.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Encourages rational skepticism, respectful caution, and confronting harsh truths while avoiding blind faith or trust.
In simple terms: Question, respect, truth, and realistic perception.
Key Takeaway
Question evidence, respect, truth, and realistic perception.
Themes
skepticism
respect
truth
realism
Mood
cautious
analytical
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- political discourse
- legal judgments
- financial decisions
- media consumption
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance respect with healthy skepticism?
- When should you demand evidence before trusting?
A Different Perspective
Blind trust can lead to exploitation; respect may be perceived as cold.