All my life I have placed great store in civility and good…
“All my life I have placed great store in civility and good manners, practices I find scarce among the often hard-edged, badly socialized scientists with whom I associate. Tone of voice means a great deal to me in the course of debate. I despise the arrogance and doting self-regard so frequently found among the very bright.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author values civility and tone in debate, criticizing arrogance among intelligent but poorly socialized scientists.
In simple terms: Politeness matters; arrogance is disliked.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize respectful communication.
Themes
civility
communication
arrogance
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic conferences
- online discussions
- team meetings
Key Concepts
social etiquette
debate dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you model civility in hostile environments?
- What strategies reduce arrogance in discourse?
A Different Perspective
Politeness may be ignored in competitive fields.