In what you say of another, apply the test of kindness…
“In what you say of another, apply the test of kindness, necessity and truth, and let nothing pass your lips without a 2/3 majority.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Speak kindly, truthfully, and necessarily; ensure that any statement meets a majority of these virtues before being uttered.
In simple terms: Only speak when kindness, truth, and necessity align.
Key Takeaway
Validate speech against ethical criteria.
Themes
ethics
communication
kindness
truth
necessity
Mood
mindful
principled
Type
prescriptive
philosophical
When to use this quote
- daily conversations
- public speaking
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
prescriptive
philosophical
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you quickly assess your words?
- What situations challenge this principle?
A Different Perspective
The rule may be impractical in fast‑paced dialogue.