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I look at the human sciences as poetic sciences in which…

“I look at the human sciences as poetic sciences in which there is no objectivity, and I see film as not being objective, and cinema verite as a cinema of lies that depends on the art of telling yourself lies. If you’re a good storyteller then the lie is more true than reality, and if you’re a bad…” quote by Jean Rouch
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“I look at the human sciences as poetic sciences in which there is no objectivity, and I see film as not being objective, and cinema verite as a cinema of lies that depends on the art of telling yourself lies. If you’re a good storyteller then the lie is more true than reality, and if you’re a bad one, the truth is worse than a half lie.”

Jean Rouch

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 sees human sciences and cinema as inherently subjective, suggesting that storytelling can make a lie feel more truthful than reality, while poor storytelling makes truth seem worse.

In simple terms: Science and film are subjective; storytelling shapes truth.

Key Takeaway

Recognize subjectivity and the power of narrative.

Themes

subjectivity truth storytelling cinema human sciences

Mood

reflective critical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • documentary filmmaking
  • academic research
  • creative writing
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

narrative theory philosophy of science media studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • When can narrative enhance understanding without distorting truth?
  • How do we balance subjectivity with factual integrity?
A Different Perspective

The view may overgeneralize, ignoring objective methods in sciences and factual reporting in journalism.

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