Acceptable Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“Politeness is the most acceptable hypocrisy”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Devil's Dictionary, 1906
Politeness often masks true motives, presenting a socially acceptable falsehood.
In simple terms: Politeness hides real intent.
Key Takeaway
Question motives behind courtesy.
Themes
social etiquette
hypocrisy
communication
Mood
ironic
critical
Type
aphilosophical
satirical
When to use this quote
- workplace interactions
- dinner parties
- online comments
- customer service
Key Concepts
social masks
authenticity
self‑presentation
Questions to Reflect On
- When does politeness become harmful?
- Can honesty be polite?
A Different Perspective
Politeness can be necessary for harmony.
![“In any case, open-seat presidential elections like 2008 just are different in character from incumbent reelects, and I think that's the most important thing about this election - is that once there's an incumbent running for reelection, most of the debate is about, "Has he [Barack Obama] done a…” quote by William Kristol](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0b0/william-kristol-9091_acceptable_in-any-case-open-seat-presidential-elect_36353.jpg)