Avoiding Quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton
“There is a case for telling the truth; there is a case for avoiding the scandal; but there is no possible defense for the man who tells the scandal, but does not tell the truth”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Man Who Was Thursday” (1915)
A truth‑teller must be honest; exposing scandal without truth is indefensible.
In simple terms: Truth must be spoken; scandal alone is insufficient.
Key Takeaway
Speak truth, not just scandal.
Themes
integrity
honesty
morality
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- media reporting
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever justified to hide truth to protect reputation?
- How does scandal without truth affect trust?
A Different Perspective
Truth alone may not protect from consequences.
![“I can hardly believe what these 12 caricatures [about Prophet Muhammad] have caused in the world. We Danes feel like we have been placed in a scene in the wrong movie. But I don't see the fight as a clash of civilizations. Rather, we must focus on avoiding exactly this type of conflict. We have to…” quote by Anders Fogh Rasmussen](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8d8/anders-fogh-rasmussen-21056_acknowledgement_i-can-hardly-believe-what-these-12-caric_14933.jpg)
