Bounds Quote by Sidney Poitier
“I know how easy it is for one to stay well within moral, ethical, and legal bounds through the skillful use of words - and to thereby spin, sidestep, circumvent, or bend a truth completely out of shape. To that extent, we are all liars on numerous occasions.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Art of Persuasion, 1975
Words can be used to distort truth, making us lie without realizing it.
In simple terms: Language can hide truth.
Key Takeaway
Be mindful of how words shape honesty.
Themes
ethics
communication
truth
deception
language
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- media reporting
- personal relationships
- legal testimony
Key Concepts
rhetoric
cognitive bias
social psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you unintentionally twisted truth?
- How do you ensure clarity in communication?
A Different Perspective
Truth can be compromised by intent, not just words.
