Cant Quote by William Hazlitt
“Cant is the voluntary overcharging or prolongation of a real sentiment; hypocrisy is the setting up a pretension to a feeling you never had and have no wish for.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Hypocrisy, 1825
Hypocrisy involves feigning feelings one does not possess, while cant pretends to hold exaggerated moral or sentimental positions.
In simple terms: Pretending feelings vs. exaggerated moral claims.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and avoid insincere displays.
Themes
ethics
authenticity
social behavior
language
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- political rhetoric
- social media
- personal relationships
- public speaking
Key Concepts
hypocrisy
cant
pretense
moral posturing
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you witnessed cant versus hypocrisy?
- Why do people adopt false personas?
A Different Perspective
Social pressure may encourage performative sincerity.
![“My dear friend, clear your mind of cant [excessive thought]. You may talk as other people do: you may say to a man, "Sir, I am your most humble servant." You are not his most humble servant. You may say, "These are bad times; it is a melancholy thing to be reserved to such times." You don't mind…” quote by Samuel Johnson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/590/samuel-johnson-50_appropriateness_my-dear-friend-clear-your-mind-of-cant-e_74600.jpg)