Truth Quote by Jacques Derrida
““I do not teach truth as such; I do not transform myself into a diaphanous mouthpiece of eternal pedagogy: I settle accounts , however I can, on a certain number of problems; with you and with me or me, and through you, me and me, with a certain number of authorities represented here. I understand that the place I am now occupying will not be left out of the exhibit or withdrawn form the scene. Nor do I intend to withhold even that which I shall call, to save time, an autobiographical demonstration, although I must ask you to shift its sense a little and to listen to it with another ear. I wish to take a certain pleasure in this, so that you may learn this pleasure from me.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Poststructuralist Philosophy, 1995
The speaker emphasizes personal, reflective teaching, acknowledging the limits of absolute truth and inviting listeners to experience learning as a shared, evolving process.
In simple terms: Teaching is a shared, evolving experience, not a one‑way transmission of truth.
Key Takeaway
Embrace collaborative, reflective learning.
Themes
Accept uncertainty, engage with multiple perspectives.
Mood
What assumptions do you hold about truth?
How can you balance humility with authority in teaching?
Type
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
When to use this quote
- poststructuralism
- autobiographical demonstration
- epistemic humility
Key Concepts
philosophy
education
truth
subjectivity
dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- Overemphasis on relativism may undermine confidence in knowledge.
A Different Perspective
classroom discussions;workshops;online seminars;peer review sessions
