Skip to content

Comedy Quote by Samuel Butler

“A sense of humour keen enough to show a man his own absurdities as well as those of other people will keep a man from the commission of all sins, or nearly all, save those that are worth committing.” quote by Samuel Butler
Download Open image
“A sense of humour keen enough to show a man his own absurdities as well as those of other people will keep a man from the commission of all sins, or nearly all, save those that are worth committing.”

Samuel Butler

About This Quote

Source Book: Hudibras by Samuel Butler, 1663

Humor that reveals both personal and others’ absurdities deters most wrongdoing, except perhaps the occasional justified transgression.

In simple terms: Humor exposing absurdities prevents most sins.

Key Takeaway

Use humor to expose folly.

Themes

ethics humor self-awareness

Mood

reflective lighthearted

Type

philosophical satirical

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • social critique

Key Concepts

Satire moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can humor be used responsibly to critique?
  • What limits exist for humor in moral guidance?
A Different Perspective

Humor may be misunderstood or ignored, reducing its effect.

2.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Samuel Butler

Explore all 355 Samuel Butler quotes

More Comedy quotes

Browse all 19,795 Comedy quotes