Argument Quote by Bertrand Russell
“The argument against the persecution of opinion does not depend upon what the excuse for persecution may be. The argument is that we none of us know all truth, that the discovery of new truth is promoted by free discussion and rendered very difficult by suppression.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On the Freedom of Thought, Bertrand Russell, 1915
Truth is incomplete; open debate uncovers new ideas, while suppression hinders discovery.
In simple terms: Open discussion reveals truth.
Key Takeaway
Encourage free speech.
Themes
truth
discussion
freedom
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- academia
- media
- legislation
- public debate
Key Concepts
epistemology
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards balance truth and safety?
- How to handle false ideas?
A Different Perspective
Free speech can spread harmful misinformation.
![“If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do. [...] The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d41/bertrand-russell-69_angry_if-an-opinion-contrary-to-your-own-makes_997355.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
