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Able Quote by William Godwin

“No maxim can be more pernicious than that which would teach us to consult the temper of the times, and to tell only so much as we imagine our contemporaries will be able to bear.” quote by William Godwin
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“No maxim can be more pernicious than that which would teach us to consult the temper of the times, and to tell only so much as we imagine our contemporaries will be able to bear.”

William Godwin

About This Quote

Source Essay: Political Justice, 1793

Caution against tailoring ideas to contemporary tastes, which can limit critical thought.

In simple terms: Don’t limit ideas to current trends.

Key Takeaway

Encourage timeless thinking.

Themes

politics philosophy critical thinking

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • media analysis
  • policy making
  • social activism

Key Concepts

censorship public discourse

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we balance relevance with depth?
  • When should we challenge popular opinion?
A Different Perspective

Risk of ignoring necessary progress.

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