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Adultery Quote by Jonah Goldberg

“The logical upshot of liberalism's hatred of hypocrisy is that it is better for the liar to champion lying, the glutton to advocate gluttony, the adulterer to celebrate adultery, than for someone to preach the right thing if he himself occasionally does the wrong thing. Better to let your failings…” quote by Jonah Goldberg
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“The logical upshot of liberalism's hatred of hypocrisy is that it is better for the liar to champion lying, the glutton to advocate gluttony, the adulterer to celebrate adultery, than for someone to preach the right thing if he himself occasionally does the wrong thing. Better to let your failings define you and be happy about it, than to let your ideals define you but then fall short of them, for that opens you up to the charge of hypocrisy.”

Jonah Goldberg

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Liberal Paradox, 2018

Liberalism’s aversion to hypocrisy leads to tolerating immoral behavior when performed by those who claim moral authority, suggesting personal failings should be accepted rather than hidden.

In simple terms: Liberalism may excuse hypocrisy, allowing people to own their flaws.

Key Takeaway

Embrace authenticity over false perfection.

Themes

hypocrisy liberalism authenticity

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political commentary

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • personal relationships
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

moral philosophy political theory self‑acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it better to hide or reveal imperfections?
  • How does hypocrisy affect trust?
A Different Perspective

Accepting flaws can undermine accountability.

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