Skip to content

That was excellently observed’, say I, when I read a…

“That was excellently observed’, say I, when I read a passage in an author, where his opinion agrees with mine. When we differ, there I pronounce him to be mistaken.” quote by Jonathan Swift
Download Open image
“That was excellently observed’, say I, when I read a passage in an author, where his opinion agrees with mine. When we differ, there I pronounce him to be mistaken.”

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

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

When others share your view, you praise them; when they differ, you label them wrong.

In simple terms: Praise agreement, dismiss dissent.

Key Takeaway

Recognize bias in agreement.

Themes

intellectual humility dialogue bias critical thinking

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • team meetings
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

cognitive bias epistemic humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle disagreement?
  • Can you find value in opposing views?
A Different Perspective

Dismissal of differing opinions hinders learning.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jonathan Swift

Explore all 535 Jonathan Swift quotes

More Agree quotes

Browse all 3,079 Agree quotes