Attributes Quote by Thomas Hobbes
“True and False are attributes of speech, not of things. And where speech is not, there is neither Truth nor Falsehood.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes, 1651
Truth and falsehood belong to language, not to objects; without speech there is no truth or falsehood.
In simple terms: Truth is a linguistic concept.
Key Takeaway
Recognize language's role in defining truth.
Themes
philosophy
language
epistemology
Mood
analytical
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- debates
- legal arguments
- media analysis
- scientific reporting
Key Concepts
semantic theory
truth theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape our perception of reality?
- Can truth exist without language?
A Different Perspective
Language can be ambiguous, making truth assessment difficult.
