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Cliche Quote by John F. Kennedy

“The great enemy of truth is very often not the lie--deliberate, contrived and dishonest--but the myth--persistent, persuasive and unrealistic. Too often we hold fast to the cliches of our forebears. We subject all facts to a prefabricated set of interpretations. We enjoy the comfort of opinion…” quote by John F. Kennedy
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“The great enemy of truth is very often not the lie--deliberate, contrived and dishonest--but the myth--persistent, persuasive and unrealistic. Too often we hold fast to the cliches of our forebears. We subject all facts to a prefabricated set of interpretations. We enjoy the comfort of opinion without the discomfort of thought.”

John F. Kennedy

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks at the American University, 1963

Truth is threatened not only by falsehoods but by persistent myths that shape our thinking without scrutiny.

In simple terms: Myths can block truth more than lies.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions, seek evidence.

Themes

critical thinking truth myths interpretation comfort zones

Mood

reflective analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • media consumption
  • education
  • personal decision making
  • public policy

Key Concepts

cognitive bias social conformity epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What beliefs have you accepted without evidence?
  • How do myths influence your daily choices?
A Different Perspective

Myths are often comforting, making them hard to challenge.

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