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It is as certain as it is strange that truth and error…

“It is as certain as it is strange that truth and error come from one and the same source. Thus it is that we are often not at liberty to do violence to error, because at the same time we do violence to truth.” quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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“It is as certain as it is strange that truth and error come from one and the same source. Thus it is that we are often not at liberty to do violence to error, because at the same time we do violence to truth.”

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

About This Quote

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

Truth and error share a common origin, making it hard to attack error without harming truth.

In simple terms: Truth and error come from the same source.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the link between truth and error.

Themes

philosophy truth error duality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • debate
  • critical thinking
  • ethical decisions
  • academic research

Key Concepts

metaphysics epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate error from truth?
  • Can you address error without harming truth?
A Different Perspective

Attacking error may unintentionally damage truth.

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