The most noble and profitable invention of all other, was…
“The most noble and profitable invention of all other, was that of SPEECH, consisting of Names or Appellations, and their Connexion; whereby men register their Thoughts; recall them when they are past; and also declare them one to another for mutuall utility and conversation; without which, there had been amongst men, neither Commonwealth, nor Society, nor Contract, nor Peace, no more than amongst Lyons, Bears, and Wolves.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Speech creates a shared language that links individuals, enabling societies, contracts, and peace.
In simple terms: Language lets people connect and organize.
Use clear communication to build community.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political debates
- team projects
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape social bonds?
- What happens when communication fails?
Speech alone cannot guarantee harmony without trust.