Relativism Quote by Francis Beauchesne Thornton
““Truth, an objective thing, is usually conceived of as something simple. Quite the opposite is correct: truth is enormously complicated; it calls for effort on several levels to arrive at its definition; it demands the utmost devotion in its service. Do you doubt it? Then resolve evermore to tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth. You must hurt your friends, suffer the most pitiless scrutiny and persecution, turn the festive occasion into a nightmare of share words and recriminations. You will be called "a sour-puss," a curmudgeon, a difficult man, and very possibly a knave and an untruthful braggart. The world, as it is organized, is a conspiracy against truth. Individuals, communities, nations, they are all afraid of the truth as if it were a medusa head which froze men to stone, even as it froze them to virtue.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, attributed to Thornton, 19th century
Truth is complex, demanding deep effort, sacrifice, and courage to confront societal resistance and personal cost.
In simple terms: Truth is hard and costly.
Key Takeaway
Embrace honesty despite hardship.
Themes
honesty
courage
societal pressure
truth-seeking
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- activism
- journalism
- personal relationships
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
philosophical
ethical
psychological
Questions to Reflect On
- What are you willing to sacrifice for truth?
- How does society punish truth‑tellers?
A Different Perspective
Truth can alienate and endanger the speaker.
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