Skip to content

Deceit Quote by Evelyn Waugh

“We schoolmasters must temper discretion with deceit.” quote by Evelyn Waugh
Download Open image
“We schoolmasters must temper discretion with deceit.”

Evelyn Waugh

About This Quote

Source Novel: Decline and Fall, Evelyn Waugh, 1928

The quote warns that educators should balance careful judgment with occasional falsehoods to protect or manage students.

In simple terms: Teachers should mix caution and occasional untruths.

Key Takeaway

Use discretion wisely, avoid unnecessary lies.

Themes

education ethics authority trust deception

Mood

cautious reflective critical

Type

advice philosophical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • classroom management
  • political propaganda
  • media messaging
  • parent‑teacher communication

Key Concepts

moral philosophy pedagogy social control

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it justified to with a truth?
  • How does deception affect student confidence?
A Different Perspective

Overreliance on deceit erodes trust and undermines learning.

2.6 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Evelyn Waugh

Explore all 347 Evelyn Waugh quotes

More Deceit quotes

Browse all 912 Deceit quotes