Discretion Quote by Fran Lebowitz
“The French probably invented the very notion of discretion. It's not that they feel that what you don't know won't hurt you; they feel that what you don't know won't hurt them. To the French lying is simply talking.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The New Yorker, 1995
The French view discretion as a protective social tool, believing hidden truths safeguard both parties, while equating lying with merely speaking.
In simple terms: Discretion protects; lying is just speech.
Key Takeaway
Value privacy, speak truthfully.
Themes
privacy
social norms
truth
communication
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observational
cultural commentary
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- business negotiations
- diplomacy
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Cultural relativism
ethical nuance
Questions to Reflect On
- When does secrecy become harmful?
- How to balance honesty and privacy?
A Different Perspective
Discretion can also conceal harmful secrets.
![“[Friendships] are easy to get out of compared to love affairs, but they are not easy to get out of compared to, say, jail.” quote by Fran Lebowitz](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cdb/fran-lebowitz-690_affair_friendships-are-easy-to-get-out-of-compa_77324.jpg)
![“Forgiveness is the best part of valor...Discretion is easy. It's finding the courage to forgive yourself and others that is hard. [Acheron]” quote by Sherrilyn Kenyon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c73/sherrilyn-kenyon-25_courage_forgiveness-is-the-best-part-of-valor-di_34880.jpg)
