All confidence which is not absolute and entire, is…
“All confidence which is not absolute and entire, is dangerous. There are few occasions but where a man ought either to say all, or conceal all; for, how little so ever you have revealed of your secret to a friend, you have already said too much if you think it not safe to make him privy to all particulars.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Partial disclosure of secrets can be hazardous; either reveal fully or keep completely private.
In simple terms: Partial secrets are dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Choose full transparency or full secrecy.
Themes
privacy
honesty
risk management
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- legal negotiations
- personal confessions
- corporate strategy
- friendships
Key Concepts
secrecy
integrity
trust
Questions to Reflect On
- When is partial sharing appropriate?
- What are the risks of total secrecy?
A Different Perspective
Full disclosure may expose vulnerabilities.