Absence Quote by Christine de Pizan
“Those who plead their cause in the absence of an opponent can invent to their heart's content, can pontificate without taking into account the opposite point of view and keep the best arguments for themselves, for aggressors are always quick to attack those who have no means of defence.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Book of the City of Ladies, 1405
When one argues without an opponent, they can create endless justifications and hoard arguments, while attackers target the defenseless.
In simple terms: Arguing without opposition leads to unchecked rhetoric and vulnerability.
Key Takeaway
Beware of one‑sided debates.
Themes
argumentation
defenselessness
vulnerability
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- legal defense
- online debates
- negotiations
Key Concepts
Rhetoric
Power dynamics
Self‑deception
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure opposing views are considered?
- What safeguards protect the defenseless?
A Different Perspective
One‑sided arguments can become echo chambers, limiting growth.
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![“Oh! What honour for the female sex! It is perfectly obvious that God has special regard for it when all these wretched people who destroyed the whole Kingdom – now recovered and made safe by a woman, something that 5000 men could not have done – and the traitors [have been] exterminated. Before…” quote by Christine de Pizan](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6c1/christine-de-pizan-13257_courage_oh-what-honour-for-the-female-sex-it-is_503425.jpg)
