Doe Quote by Voltaire
“When he who hears does not know what he who speaks means, and when he who speaks does not know what he himself means, that is philosophy”
About This Quote
Source Book: Philosophical Dictionary, 1764
Philosophy suffers when speakers lack self‑understanding and listeners lack comprehension.
In simple terms: Misunderstanding hinders true philosophy.
Key Takeaway
Seek clarity in thought and speech.
Themes
communication
philosophy
self‑awareness
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- debates
- teaching
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
epistemology
semantic clarity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we improve mutual understanding?
- What does it mean to truly know one's own words?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all philosophy aims for clarity.
![“In my opinion, I'm quite certain that Dr. Miroslav Volf most always means simply what he says and says exactly what he means and he no more speaks in 'code' than I do". ~R. Alan Woods [2012]” quote by R. Alan Woods](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/81b/r-alan-woods-1455_miroslav-volf_in-my-opinion-i-m-quite-certain-that-dr_888652.jpg)
