Accepting Quote by J. L. Austin
“In the one defense, briefly, we accept responsibility but deny that it was bad: in the other, we admit that it was bad but don't accept full, or even any, responsibility.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Legal Reasoning, J. L. Austin, 1950s
Two defensive strategies: accept responsibility while denying fault, or admit fault while denying responsibility.
In simple terms: Two ways to shift blame or guilt.
Key Takeaway
Choose the strategy that aligns with your ethical stance.
Themes
responsibility
ethics
defense
law
communication
Mood
defensive
analytical
Type
philosophical
legal
When to use this quote
- courtroom defense
- public relations crisis
- political debate
- corporate liability
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
legal theory
argumentation
Questions to Reflect On
- Which strategy better serves justice?
- When is it acceptable to separate fault from responsibility?
A Different Perspective
May undermine credibility if the audience sees inconsistency.
