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Truth Quote by John Quincy Adams

“To believe all men honest would be folly. To believe none so, is something worse.” quote by John Quincy Adams
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““To believe all men honest would be folly. To believe none so, is something worse.””

John Quincy Adams

About This Quote

Source Speech: Letter to Thomas Jefferson, 1815

Assuming everyone is honest is naive; assuming everyone is dishonest is even more harmful.

In simple terms: Blind trust or cynicism both fail.

Key Takeaway

Balance trust with discernment.

Themes

trust human nature wisdom

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • team building
  • leadership decisions

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you assess trustworthiness?
  • When does skepticism become counterproductive?
A Different Perspective

Overly cautious trust can hinder cooperation.

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