Belief Quote by Jonathan Swift
“It often happens that, if a lie be believed only for an hour, it has done its work, and there is no further occasion for it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "A Letter to a Young Gentleman", 1735
A brief lie can achieve its purpose quickly, after which it becomes irrelevant.
In simple terms: Short lies work briefly then lose purpose.
Key Takeaway
Use truth for lasting impact.
Themes
deception
efficacy
temporal relevance
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- Political propaganda
- advertising
- personal relationships
- media narratives
Key Concepts
Philosophy of language
ethics
communication theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How long should a lie be allowed to influence?
- When is deception justified?
A Different Perspective
Truth may be ignored despite its value.
