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It is not without good reason, that he who has not a good…

“It is not without good reason, that he who has not a good memory should never take upon him the trade of lying.” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“It is not without good reason, that he who has not a good memory should never take upon him the trade of lying.”

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.

A poor memory makes lying harder, implying honesty is easier for those who remember accurately.

In simple terms: Bad memory hinders lying.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate memory to avoid deceit.

Themes

honesty memory liar ethics

Mood

contemplative serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • legal testimony
  • personal integrity
  • academic work

Key Concepts

philosophy cognitive psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you trust your memory?
  • What ethical standards guide your truthfulness?
A Different Perspective

Memory can be unreliable, so honesty should not rely on it.

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