Fingers Quote by George Eliot
“Play not with paradoxes. That caustic which you handle in order to scorch others may happen to sear your own fingers and make them dead to the quality of things.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Middlemarch by George Eliot, 1871
Manipulating paradoxes to harm others can backfire, damaging one's own perception and vitality.
In simple terms: Using paradoxes against others can hurt yourself.
Key Takeaway
Avoid harmful paradoxes.
Themes
ethics
self‑awareness
consequences
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- political debate
- legal strategy
- media criticism
Key Concepts
paradox
self‑destruction
perception
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you use paradoxes defensively?
- Can paradoxes ever be constructive?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes intent to harm; not all paradoxes are malicious.
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