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There can be no doubt that distrust of words is less…

“There can be no doubt that distrust of words is less harmful than unwarranted trust in them. Besides, to distrust words, and indict them for the horrors that might slumber unobtrusively within them --isn't this, after all, the true vocation of the intellectual?” quote by Vaclav Havel
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“There can be no doubt that distrust of words is less harmful than unwarranted trust in them. Besides, to distrust words, and indict them for the horrors that might slumber unobtrusively within them --isn't this, after all, the true vocation of the intellectual?”

Vaclav Havel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Questioning the trust placed in language, suggesting skepticism is safer than blind belief.

In simple terms: Distrusting words can protect you more than trusting them blindly.

Key Takeaway

Be critical of language and its promises.

Themes

trust skepticism language

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • media consumption
  • academic study

Key Concepts

philosophy critical thinking intellectual responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is trust in words justified?
  • How can we balance skepticism and openness?
A Different Perspective

Blind trust can also be necessary in some contexts.

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