Failure Quote by Karl Brunnholzl
““However, neither victory nor defeat comes about through the words of the other party alone. This means that if we speak the truth without any contradictions, then such a statement neither turns into defeat through someone else saying that it is wrong nor becomes true (or even more true) by another approving of it. Likewise, if our own words are wrong, we just defeat ourselves. It is not that our words or thoughts are made wrong by another person. In general, we are convinced by what is established for ourselves and not merely by the fact that certain reasons are established for others. In other words, other people may help us through their words to see for ourselves that we are wrong, but the actual understanding of this can only happen in our own minds through our own insights.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Truth and Self‑Reflection, 2010
Understanding truth requires personal insight; external validation or criticism cannot alone determine correctness.
In simple terms: Truth depends on personal insight, not just others' words.
Seek inner verification of beliefs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates
- personal growth
- education
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What internal checks validate your beliefs?
- How do you handle contradictory feedback?
Self‑deception can blind one to truth despite external cues.