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Adoration Quote by Bertrand Russell

“Experience has taught me a technique for dealing with such people [...] I counter the devotees of the Great Pyramid by adoration of the Sphinx; and the devotee of nuts by pointing out that hazelnuts and walnuts are as deleterious as other foods and only Brazil nuts should be tolerated. But when I…” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“Experience has taught me a technique for dealing with such people [...] I counter the devotees of the Great Pyramid by adoration of the Sphinx; and the devotee of nuts by pointing out that hazelnuts and walnuts are as deleterious as other foods and only Brazil nuts should be tolerated. But when I was younger I had not yet acquired this technique, with the result that my contacts with cranks were sometimes alarming.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Technique of Dealing with Extremists, 1925

He developed a method of countering extreme views by using humor and selective tolerance.

In simple terms: He uses humor and tolerance to handle extremists.

Key Takeaway

Apply humor and selective tolerance to extreme ideas.

Themes

tolerance humor extremism

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • online discussions
  • personal interactions

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can humor be used responsibly?
  • When is tolerance counterproductive?
A Different Perspective

Humor may not always defuse tension.

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