Quote by Lord Chesterfield

It is commonly said that ridicule is the best test of truth; for that it will not stick where it is not just. I deny it. A truth learned in a certain light, and attacked in certain words, by men of wit and humor, may, and often doth, become ridiculous, at least so far, that the truth is only remembered and repeated for the sake of the ridicule.

It is commonly said that ridicule is the best test of truth;

Summary

This quote argues against the notion that ridicule is the ultimate test of truth. The author claims that a truth, when presented in a particular light and criticized by witty and humorous individuals, can be made to appear ridiculous. They suggest that instead of the truth being the focus, people may remember and repeat it merely for the sake of the ridicule. In essence, the quote challenges the widely held belief that ridicule automatically exposes the falsehood of an idea or belief.

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By Lord Chesterfield

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