Accommodate Quote by Joseph Addison
“A man who is furnished with arguments from the mint, will convince his antagonist much sooner than one who draws them from reason and philosophy. - Gold is a wonderful clearer of the understanding; it dissipates every doubt and scruple in an instant; accommodates itself to the meanest capacities; silences the loud and clamorous, and cringes over the most obstinate and inflexible. - Philip of Macedon was a man of most invincible reason this way. He refuted by it all the wisdom of Athens; confounded their statesmen; struck their orators dumb; and at length argued them out of all their liberties.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Art of Argument” by Joseph Addison, 1712
Relying on flashy, superficial evidence (like gold) convinces opponents quickly, but true persuasion comes from solid reasoning and philosophy.
In simple terms: Showy tricks win short‑term, deep reason wins lasting.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize logical argument over flashy tricks.
Themes
persuasion
argumentation
philosophy
appearance vs substance
intellectual honesty
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- debates
- public speaking
- writing
- teaching
Key Concepts
rhetoric
critical thinking
credibility
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the risks of using superficial evidence?
- How can one balance style and substance?
A Different Perspective
Flashy tactics may win momentarily but lack durability and can be exposed.
