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Dare Quote by Albert Camus

“But again and again there comes a time in history when the man who dares to say that two and two make four is punished with death. The schoolteacher is well aware of this. And the question is not one of knowing what punishment or reward attends the making of this calculation. The question is one…” quote by Albert Camus
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“But again and again there comes a time in history when the man who dares to say that two and two make four is punished with death. The schoolteacher is well aware of this. And the question is not one of knowing what punishment or reward attends the making of this calculation. The question is one of knowing whether two and two do make four”

Albert Camus

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Stranger by Albert Camus, 1942

When truth challenges authority, societies may punish dissent, highlighting the clash between objective facts and oppressive power.

In simple terms: Truth can be dangerous under tyranny.

Key Takeaway

Stand firm for factual truth.

Themes

politics truth oppression philosophy justice

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • whistleblowing
  • legal defense

Key Concepts

existentialism authoritarianism ethical courage

Questions to Reflect On

  • What risks do you face when stating obvious facts?
  • How can societies protect truth‑tellers?
A Different Perspective

Truth alone may not protect the truth‑teller.

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