Aim Quote by Oscar Wilde
“The liar at any rate recognizes that recreation, not instruction, is the aim of conversation, and is a far more civilized being than the blockhead who loudly expresses his disbelief in a story which is told simply for the amusement of the company.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Soul of Man under Socialism, 1891
Conversation should entertain and inspire, not merely instruct; a liar enjoys the pleasure of dialogue more than a skeptic who dismisses it.
In simple terms: Talk should be fun, not just teaching.
Value playful dialogue over rigid criticism.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates
- social gatherings
- creative brainstorming
- teaching sessions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is instruction more valuable than amusement?
- How can humor aid serious discussion?
Overemphasis on entertainment may dilute important truths.