Doctors Quote by Kingsley Amis
“How wrong people always were when they said: 'It's better to know the worst than go on not knowing either way.' No; they had it exactly the wrong way round. Tell me the truth, doctor, I'd sooner know. But only if the truth is what I want to hear.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The World According to Garp, 1978 (paraphrased in dialogue)
People prefer comforting lies over harsh truths, yet they also desire truth that aligns with their hopes
In simple terms: Truth is preferred only when it fits desires
Key Takeaway
Seek truth, but be ready for discomfort
Themes
truth
desire
comfort
cognitive bias
Mood
conflicted
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
literary
When to use this quote
- medical diagnosis
- personal relationships
- political discourse
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it kinder to with a truth?
- How do you balance honesty and compassion?
A Different Perspective
Truth can cause pain or false hope
