It is wrong for a man to say that he is certain of the objective truth of any proposition unless he can produce evidence which logically justifies that certainty.
Thomas HuxleyRead
Thoughtfulness for others, generosity, modesty, and self-respect are the qualities which make a real gentleman or lady.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True gentility is characterized by respect for others and virtuous qualities like generosity and modesty.
In this quote, Thomas Huxley emphasizes that the essence of a true gentleman or lady lies in their thoughtfulness towards others, as well as in attributes such as generosity, modesty, and self-respect. These qualities denote a person's character, highlighting that social grace is not merely about appearance or status, but rather about one's moral integrity and consideration for those around them.
Themes
GentlemanQualitiesThoughtfulnessGenerosityModestySelf-Respect
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about leadership qualities, one might say, 'As Thomas Huxley noted, thoughtfulness and self-respect are essential traits of a true gentleman.'
More from Thomas Huxley
All quotes βThe child who has been taught to make an accurate elevation, plan, and section of a pint pot has had an admirable training in accuracy of eye and hand.
Thomas HuxleyRead
Let us have "sweet girl graduates" by all means. They will be none the less sweet for a little wisdom; and the "golden hair" will not curl less gracefully outside the head by reason of there being brains within.
Thomas HuxleyRead
The secret of genius is to carry the spirit of childhood into maturity.
Thomas HuxleyRead
It is the first duty of a hypothesis to be intelligible.
Thomas HuxleyRead
Of the few innocent pleasures left to men past middle life, the jamming of common sense down the throats of fools is perhaps the keenest.
Thomas HuxleyRead
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