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Not the violent conflict between parts of the truth, but…

“Not the violent conflict between parts of the truth, but the quiet suppression of half of it, is the formidable evil; there is always hope when people are forced to listen to both sides; it is when they attend to only one that errors harden into prejudices, and truth itself ceases to have the…” quote by John Stuart Mill
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“Not the violent conflict between parts of the truth, but the quiet suppression of half of it, is the formidable evil; there is always hope when people are forced to listen to both sides; it is when they attend to only one that errors harden into prejudices, and truth itself ceases to have the effect of truth, by being exaggerated into falsehood.”

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

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

Truth suffers when only part is heard; full exposure prevents prejudice and distortion.

In simple terms: Partial truth leads to prejudice; full truth prevents it.

Key Takeaway

Seek all sides before forming judgment.

Themes

truth prejudice dialogue justice knowledge

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • media reporting
  • education
  • policy making
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

liberalism epistemology critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure you hear the full story?
  • What risks arise from listening to only one side?
A Different Perspective

Ignoring opposing views can reinforce bias and hinder understanding.

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