Judgment Usually Quote by Bernard Cornwell
““A trial relied heavily on oaths, but both sides would bring as many liars as they could muster, and judgment usually went to the better liars or, if both sides were equally convincing, to the side who had the sympathy of the onlookers.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Sharpe’s Eagle, 1981
Legal disputes often hinge on persuasive deception, with outcomes swayed by who appears more credible or garners public sympathy.
In simple terms: Trials can be decided by who tells better lies or gains sympathy.
Beware of rhetoric over truth in judgments.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- courtroom drama
- political negotiations
- media bias
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can reduce reliance on charisma in decisions?
- How does public sympathy affect justice?
Even skilled liars can dominate outcomes, undermining fairness.