Many who think they are workers in politics are really merely tools.
Lord SalisburyRead
If you believe the doctors, nothing is wholesome; if you believe the theologians, nothing is innocent; if you believe the military, nothing is safe.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the skepticism towards various authorities and their perspectives on life.
Lord Salisbury's quote expresses a critical view of how different societal authorities—healthcare professionals, religious leaders, and military figures—often depict the world in a negative light. Each group seems to cast doubt on the wholesomeness, innocence, or safety of experiences and beliefs, suggesting that to fully embrace life, one must question or move beyond the limiting perspectives imposed by these authorities. This can be seen as a commentary on the nature of authority and the importance of personal belief in determining one's understanding of the world.
Themes
BeliefAuthoritySkepticismWisdomDoubt
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about the influence of authority on public perception.
More from Lord Salisbury
All quotes →Similar quotes
I think our governments will remain virtuous for many centuries as long as they are chiefly agricultural; and this will be as long as there shall be vacant lands in any part of America. When they get piled upon one another in large cities as in Europe, they will become corrupt as in Europe.
Thomas JeffersonRead
From my stone pillow I have dreamed dreams of the mortal world above. I have heard its voices, its new music, as lullabies as I lie in my grave. I have envisioned its fantastical discoveries. I have known its courage in the timeless sanctum of my thoughts. And though it shuts me out with its dazzling forms, I long for one with the strength to roam it fearlessly, to ride the Devil's Road through its heart.
Anne RiceRead
I find the whole business of religion profoundly interesting. But it does mystify me that otherwise intelligent people take it seriously.
Douglas AdamsRead
'Emergencies' have always been the pretext on which the safeguards of individual liberty have been eroded.
Friedrich August Von HayekRead
He works in us and with us, not against us or without us; so that his assistance is an encouragement to the facilitating of the work, and no occasion of neglect as to the work itself.
John OwenRead
The mind is its own place, and in itself, can make heaven of Hell, and a hell of Heaven.
John MiltonRead