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Truth always originates in a minority of one, and every custom begins as a broken precedent.
Will Durant
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that true ideas often start with single individuals and that traditions often start by breaking established norms.

Will Durant's quote emphasizes the idea that innovation and truth often come from a single individual's perspective, challenging the status quo. It highlights how societal norms and customs emerge when individuals dare to deviate from established traditions, thus inviting change and progress from what was once considered unconventional.

Themes

TruthMinorityCustomsPrecedentInnovation

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about social change, one could use this quote to illustrate how new ideas often start from individuals challenging the norm.

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Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
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If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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