Authority Quote by Augustus William Hare
“When will talkers refrain from evil speaking? When listeners refrain from evil hearing. At present there are many so credulous of evil, they will receive suspicions and impressions against persons whom they don't know, from a person whom they do know--an authority good for nothing.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Moral Reflections, 1845
The quote warns that both speakers and listeners share responsibility for spreading harmful words; gullibility amplifies damage.
In simple terms: Both talkers and listeners must avoid evil speech and hearing.
Key Takeaway
Practice careful listening and speaking.
Themes
responsibility
communication
ethics
gullibility
authority
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
advice
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- media consumption
- leadership
- education
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social influence
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify information before sharing?
- What habits can reduce gullibility?
A Different Perspective
If the source is trusted, listeners may ignore the warning.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)