We ought not to extract pernicious honey from poison blossoms of misrepresentation and mendacious half-truth, to pamper the course appetite of bigotry and self-love.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeRead
The first duty of a wise advocate is to convince his opponents that he understands their arguments, and sympathies with their just feelings.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A wise advocate must first show understanding and empathy towards opposing views before making their case.
This quote emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in advocacy and persuasion. Samuel Taylor Coleridge suggests that to effectively engage in debate or argument, one must first acknowledge and appreciate the perspective of the opposition. This approach fosters respect and opens the door for constructive dialogue, ultimately leading to more productive discussions and outcomes.
Themes
AdvocacyEmpathyUnderstandingPersuasionDebate
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate, reminding participants that understanding each other's viewpoints is vital for productive discussions.
More from Samuel Taylor Coleridge
All quotes βCommon sense in an uncommon degree is what the world calls wisdom.
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And all who heard should see them there, And all should cry, Beware! Beware! His flashing eyes, his floating hair! Weave a circle round him thrice, And close your eyes with holy dread, For he on honey-dew hath fed, And drunk the milk of Paradise.
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Often do the spirits stride on before the event; and in today already walks tomorrow.
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Mr. Lyell's system of geology is just half the truth, and no more. He affirms a great deal that is true, and he denies a great deal which is equally true; which is the general characteristic of all systems not embracing the whole truth.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeRead
To believe and to understand are not diverse things, but the same things in different periods of growth.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeRead
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