Believe Quote by Evan Esar
“Washington is the place where nobody believes a rumor until it has been officially denied.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Great Book of Humor", 1963, by Evan Esar
The quote satirically notes that rumors are only believed when officially denied, highlighting the paradox of denial confirming suspicion.
In simple terms: Rumors gain credibility when denied.
Key Takeaway
Seek evidence before accepting rumors.
Themes
communication
rumor dynamics
skepticism
media literacy
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- office gossip
- political statements
- social media posts
- news reporting
Key Concepts
critical thinking
information verification
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would you need to trust a claim?
- How can you responsibly address rumors without amplifying them?
A Different Perspective
Denial can unintentionally reinforce rumors.
![“[On Washington, D.C.:] There was no other city in the world where rumor fed upon itself so virulently. Whispers wiped out careers just as cholera destroyed its human victims.” quote by Evelyn Anthony](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/61c/evelyn-anthony-49193_careers_on-washington-d-c-there-was-no-other-cit_3221952.jpg)
![“"The [London] Times" has published no rumours; it's only reported facts, namely that other, less responsible papers are publishing certain rumours.” quote by Tom Stoppard](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d5/tom-stoppard-437_art_the-london-times-has-published-no-rumour_1300639.jpg)
