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One should never listen. To listen is a sign of indifference to one's hearers.
Oscar Wilde
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Listening can indicate a lack of concern for others' opinions.

In this quote, Oscar Wilde suggests that listening implies a certain level of indifference toward others, as it may detach one from actively engaging with the perspectives and feelings of their audience. Wilde's statement emphasizes the importance of authentic connection and response in communication rather than mere passive reception.

Themes

ListeningCommunicationIndifferenceEngagementAudience

In practice

Example use cases

A speaker might use this quote to highlight the importance of guiding their audience through active engagement rather than simply presenting information.

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A truth ceases to be true when more than one person believes in it.
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