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Shave a gorilla and it would be almost impossible, at…

“Shave a gorilla and it would be almost impossible, at twenty paces, to distinguish him from a heavyweight champion of the world. Skin a chimpanzee, and it would take an autopsy to prove he was not a theologian.” quote by H. L. Mencken
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“Shave a gorilla and it would be almost impossible, at twenty paces, to distinguish him from a heavyweight champion of the world. Skin a chimpanzee, and it would take an autopsy to prove he was not a theologian.”

H. L. Mencken

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Physical similarity can mask profound differences, making superficial judgments unreliable.

In simple terms: Looks can be deceiving.

Key Takeaway

Question appearances before judging.

Themes

appearance identity judgment

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • animal studies
  • law enforcement
  • social interactions

Key Concepts

biology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we avoid misidentifying based on looks?
  • What deeper checks are needed?
A Different Perspective

Superficial similarity may hide dangerous traits.

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