Commentators Quote by Malcolm Forbes
“Unconsciously I had discovered the commentator's secret weapon-that so long as you can wield words, it isn't necessary to know what you're talking about.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Forbes Magazine, 1990s
Words can be used as a tool of influence even without deep knowledge of the subject.
In simple terms: Words can influence without expertise.
Key Takeaway
Use words wisely, seek understanding.
Themes
communication
power
knowledge
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
advice
insightful
When to use this quote
- political debate
- media interviews
- public speaking
- education
- leadership
Key Concepts
rhetoric
influence
expertise
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify the substance behind persuasive speech?
- When is it ethical to use rhetoric without full knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on rhetoric can mask ignorance.
![“I don't think anybody can be a success who doesn't like what they do. [But it's] no job if it has no challenge; there's nothing to it if there are no problems. The essential thing is liking what you're doing.” quote by Malcolm Forbes](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/05c/malcolm-forbes-1510_challenges_i-don-t-think-anybody-can-be-a-success-w_13342.jpg)
![“[Wave of bestselling conservative commentators] it's kind of like reading The Power Of Positive Thinking, or any other advice or how-to book. All they do is reassure people of their basic opinions, and then they can continue to act like they've always acted. I'd say it's time to move on to…” quote by P. J. O'Rourke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1c2/p-j-o-rourke-184_advice_wave-of-bestselling-conservative-comment_55176.jpg)
