The whole truth is generally the ally of virtue; a…
“The whole truth is generally the ally of virtue; a half-truth is always the ally of some vice.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Full honesty supports virtue, while partial truth often aids wrongdoing.
In simple terms: Complete honesty helps virtue; half‑truths help vice.
Seek full truth to uphold virtue.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- legal testimony
- journalism
- personal relationships
- political discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you faced a half‑truth?
- How can you encourage full transparency?
Half‑truths can be persuasive and socially accepted.