How English you are, Basil! That is the second time you…
““How English you are, Basil! That is the second time you have made that observation. If one puts forward an idea to a true Englishman—always a rash thing to do—he never dreams of considering whether the idea is right or wrong. The only thing he considers of any importance is whether one believes it oneself. Now, the value of an idea has nothing whatsoever to do with the sincerity of the man who expresses it. Indeed, the probabilities are that the more insincere the man is, the more purely intellectual will the idea be, as in that case it will not be coloured by either his wants, his desires, or his prejudices.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Wilde satirizes English intellectuals who value self‑belief over truth, suggesting insincerity can produce purer ideas untainted by personal bias.
In simple terms: English pride blinds truth; insincerity may yield unbiased ideas.
Key Takeaway
Question ideas on belief, not truth.
Themes
satire
pride
intellectual honesty
Mood
wry
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
aphilosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- political discourse
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
ego
bias
purity of thought
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you value confidence over correctness?
- Can insincerity ever be virtuous?
A Different Perspective
Ideas judged by sincerity may ignore actual merit.