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How often, being moved under a false cause, if the person…

“How often, being moved under a false cause, if the person offending makes a good defense and presents us with a just excuse, are we angry against truth and innocence itself?” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“How often, being moved under a false cause, if the person offending makes a good defense and presents us with a just excuse, are we angry against truth and innocence itself?”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

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

When we justify wrongdoing with a plausible excuse, we may irrationally blame truth and innocence.

In simple terms: Excuses can misdirect anger away from the real cause.

Key Takeaway

Question motives before blaming.

Themes

justice truth misdirection

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom
  • personal conflict
  • political debate
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

moral philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we accept convenient defenses?
  • How can we stay objective?
A Different Perspective

Excuses may be manipulative but not always intentional.

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