First time Quote by Neal Shusterman
““The sad truth about humanity, Risa was quick to realize, is that people believe what they are told. Maybe not the first time, but by the hundredth time, the craziest of ideas just becomes a given.””
About This Quote
Repeated exposure to a claim, even an absurd one, can erode skepticism and embed the idea as accepted truth within a culture.
In simple terms: Repetition makes false ideas feel true.
Key Takeaway
Frequency shapes belief.
Themes
belief
repetition
cognitive bias
media
social influence
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
observational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- political propaganda
- marketing slogans
- urban legends
Key Concepts
illusory truth effect
social conformity
Practical Applications
- Fact‑check before sharing
- Diversify information sources
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we protect ourselves from the illusory truth effect?
- When does repetition become a tool for manipulation?
A Different Perspective
Even with awareness, repeated messages can still sway emotions subconsciously.
![“[O]nly if every individual strives for truth can humanity attain a happier future; the atavisms in each of us that stand in the way of a friendlier destiny can only thus be rendered ineffective.” quote by Albert Einstein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6e4/albert-einstein-33_atheism_o-nly-if-every-individual-strives-for-tr_393352.jpg)
