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... the besetting danger is not so much of embracing…

“... the besetting danger is not so much of embracing falsehood for truth, as of mistaking a part of the truth for the whole.” quote by John Stuart Mill
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“... the besetting danger is not so much of embracing falsehood for truth, as of mistaking a part of the truth for the whole.”

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.

The danger lies in mistaking a fragment of truth for the whole, not in embracing falsehood.

In simple terms: Partial truths can mislead more than lies.

Key Takeaway

Seek comprehensive understanding.

Themes

truth knowledge critical thinking

Mood

skeptical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • media consumption
  • scientific research
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

philosophy epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify completeness?
  • When is partial truth acceptable?
A Different Perspective

Complex truths can be overwhelming.

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