Imagine Quote by Joyce Carol Oates
“Like all virtuous people he imagines he must speak the truth.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Gravedigger's Daughter, 2007
Virtue compels a person to speak truthfully, even when it is difficult.
In simple terms: Good people feel compelled to tell the truth.
Key Takeaway
Speak truth even when uncomfortable.
Themes
ethics
integrity
truthfulness
virtue
communication
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- journalism
- legal testimony
- leadership
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology of honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- When does honesty become harmful?
- How to balance truth with compassion?
A Different Perspective
Truth can cause conflict or risk.
![“I can't imagine that I would be asked that by the president-elect [Donald Trump], or then-president [Barack Obama]. But it's - I'm very clear. I voted for the change that put the Army Field Manual in place as a member of Congress. I understand that law very, very quickly and am also deeply aware…” quote by James Mattis](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/761/james-mattis-9515_army_i-can-t-imagine-that-i-would-be-asked-th_3990.jpg)