It is not the facts which guide the conduct of men, but…
“It is not the facts which guide the conduct of men, but their opinions about facts; which may be entirely wrong. We can only make them right by discussion.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People’s beliefs about facts shape actions more than facts themselves; discussion can correct misconceptions.
In simple terms: Opinions drive actions, not facts.
Use dialogue to align perceptions with reality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- media analysis
- education curricula
- public forums
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can dialogue shift entrenched beliefs?
- What role does media play in shaping opinions?
Changing opinions is often slow and resistant.