Conservative Quote by Josh Billings
“If a man is right, he can't be too radical; if he is wrong, he can't be too conservative.”
About This Quote
Correct ideas demand boldness; incorrect ones should be tempered, emphasizing that the merit of a claim, not its intensity, matters.
In simple terms: Right ideas can be radical; wrong ideas should be cautious.
Key Takeaway
Align intensity with truth.
Themes
truth
radicalism
conservatism
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
maxim
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- scientific hypothesis testing
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
epistemic humility
Practical Applications
- guide policy framing
- inform persuasive writing
Questions to Reflect On
- When might a radical stance be necessary for truth?
- Can caution ever protect a false belief?
A Different Perspective
Extremes can be justified when the underlying premise is sound, regardless of conservatism.
![“We [he and his wife Trish Van Devere] don't talk politics. I'm an independent conservative; she's a radical Democrat. We never vote together.” quote by George C. Scott](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ce6/george-c-scott-32267_conservative_we-he-and-his-wife-trish-van-devere-don_179072.jpg)
