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Crime Quote by Stendhal

“Chélan had acted as imprudently for Julien as he had for himself. He had given him the habit of reasoning correctly, and of not being put off by empty words, but he had neglected to tell him that this habit was a crime in the person of no importance, since every piece of logical reasoning is…” quote by Stendhal
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“Chélan had acted as imprudently for Julien as he had for himself. He had given him the habit of reasoning correctly, and of not being put off by empty words, but he had neglected to tell him that this habit was a crime in the person of no importance, since every piece of logical reasoning is offensive.”

Stendhal

About This Quote

Source Novel: Le Rouge et le Noir by Stendhal, 1830

He taught Julien to think clearly, but failed to warn that such reasoning can be socially dangerous when applied to trivial matters.

In simple terms: Clear thinking can be risky in petty contexts.

Key Takeaway

Beware using logic on insignificant issues.

Themes

logic social dynamics communication

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • workplace meetings
  • family discussions
  • political discourse

Key Concepts

critical thinking social risk intellectual humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does rationality become a flaw?
  • How can we balance logic with social tact?
A Different Perspective

Logic may alienate others if used without empathy.

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