Art Quote by Jean Rouch
“I look at the human sciences as poetic sciences in which there is no objectivity, and I see film as not being objective, and cinema verite as a cinema of lies that depends on the art of telling yourself lies. If you’re a good storyteller then the lie is more true than reality, and if you’re a bad one, the truth is worse than a half lie.”
About This Quote
Source Film: Documentary Theory, 1975
The author sees human sciences and cinema as inherently subjective, suggesting that storytelling can make a lie feel more truthful than reality, while poor storytelling makes truth seem worse.
In simple terms: Science and film are subjective; storytelling shapes truth.
Key Takeaway
Recognize subjectivity and the power of narrative.
Themes
subjectivity
truth
storytelling
cinema
human sciences
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- documentary filmmaking
- academic research
- creative writing
- media criticism
Key Concepts
narrative theory
philosophy of science
media studies
Questions to Reflect On
- When can narrative enhance understanding without distorting truth?
- How do we balance subjectivity with factual integrity?
A Different Perspective
The view may overgeneralize, ignoring objective methods in sciences and factual reporting in journalism.
