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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.” quote by Bernard Cornwell
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““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.””

Bernard Cornwell

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.

Key Takeaway

Beware of rhetoric over truth in judgments.

Themes

justice deception persuasion

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

literary observational

When to use this quote

  • courtroom drama
  • political negotiations
  • media bias

Key Concepts

ethics law social influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can reduce reliance on charisma in decisions?
  • How does public sympathy affect justice?
A Different Perspective

Even skilled liars can dominate outcomes, undermining fairness.

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