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Being true Quote by William Hazlitt

“To create an unfavorable impression, it is not necessary that certain things should be true, but that they have been said.” quote by William Hazlitt
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“To create an unfavorable impression, it is not necessary that certain things should be true, but that they have been said.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Influence of Speech, 1820

Impressions are shaped more by what is said than by factual truth, highlighting the power of rhetoric.

In simple terms: Words shape perception more than facts.

Key Takeaway

Question sources and seek evidence.

Themes

communication truth perception

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political debates
  • advertising
  • personal relationships
  • news consumption

Key Concepts

rhetoric cognitive bias media literacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify the truth behind statements?
  • What role does rhetoric play in your decisions?
A Different Perspective

Truth can be obscured by persuasive language.

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