The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
Truth is confirmed by inspection and delay; falsehood by haste and uncertainty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truth requires careful examination over time, while falsehood arises from rushed decisions and doubt.
This quote by Tacitus emphasizes the importance of patience and thorough investigation when seeking the truth. It suggests that true understanding and wisdom come from taking the time to reflect and analyze situations, whereas falsehood often originates from impulsive judgments made in moments of uncertainty.
Themes
TruthFalsehoodInspectionDelayHaste
In practice
Example use cases
In a workshop on critical thinking, you might use this quote to encourage participants to take their time evaluating information.
More from Tacitus
All quotes →In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
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