[On Washington, D.C.:] There was no other city in the…
“[On Washington, D.C.:] There was no other city in the world where rumor fed upon itself so virulently. Whispers wiped out careers just as cholera destroyed its human victims.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rumors spread rapidly, destroying reputations like disease spreads through populations.
In simple terms: Rumors can ruin lives like a deadly illness.
Guard against gossip and verify information.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- politics
- workplace
- online communities
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions limit harmful rumors?
- What mechanisms stop misinformation?
Rumor control is difficult without transparent communication.