Accepting Quote by Learned Hand
“I had rather take my chance that some traitors will escape detection than spread abroad a spirit of general suspicion and distrust, which accepts rumor and gossip in place of undismayed and unintimidated inquiry.”
About This Quote
Source Opinion: United States v. United States, 1952
Trust and open inquiry are essential; suspicion breeds rumor and hinders truth.
In simple terms: Trust promotes truth, suspicion hinders it.
Foster open, fearless questioning.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- courtrooms
- journalism
- public policy
- team meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is healthy skepticism needed?
- How can you balance trust and vigilance?
Suspicion can be protective in some contexts.