Adages Quote by Richard Dawkins
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me." The adage is true as long as you don't really believe the words. But if your whole upbringing, and everything you have ever been told by parents, teachers and priests, has led you to believe, really believe, utterly and completely, that sinners burn in hell (or some other obnoxious article of doctrine such as that a woman is the property of her husband), it is entirely plausible that words could have a more long-lasting and damaging effect than deeds.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public talk on religion, 2006
Words can cause deep psychological harm when they shape core beliefs, especially harmful doctrines
In simple terms: Words can hurt when they shape harmful beliefs
Key Takeaway
Question beliefs, question harmful teachings
Themes
psychology
belief
impact
harm
religion
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- childhood upbringing
- religious instruction
- political rhetoric
- media messaging
Key Concepts
Cognitive conditioning
social influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you evaluate the truth of harmful beliefs?
- What strategies protect against damaging narratives?
A Different Perspective
Words may be less visible than physical harm but can be more enduring
