Skip to content

Our understanding is conducted solely by means of the…

“Our understanding is conducted solely by means of the word: anyone who falsifies it betrays public society. It is the only tool by which we communicate our wishes and our thoughts; it is our soul’s interpreter: if we lack that, we can no longer hold together; we can no longer know each other. When…” quote by Michel de Montaigne
Download Open image
““Our understanding is conducted solely by means of the word: anyone who falsifies it betrays public society. It is the only tool by which we communicate our wishes and our thoughts; it is our soul’s interpreter: if we lack that, we can no longer hold together; we can no longer know each other. When words deceive us, it breaks all intercourse and loosens the bonds of our polity.””

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.

Language is the essential medium for sharing thoughts; when it is corrupted, trust and social cohesion collapse.

In simple terms: Words connect us; falsehoods break bonds.

Key Takeaway

Guard truth in speech.

Themes

communication trust society truth language

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political ethical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • media reporting
  • personal relationships
  • education
  • legal testimony

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics political theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify the honesty of what you hear?
  • What role does silence play in preserving trust?
A Different Perspective

Words can be ambiguous, leading to misinterpretation despite honesty.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Michel de Montaigne

Explore all 1,131 Michel de Montaigne quotes

More Learning quotes

Browse all 22,300 Learning quotes