Quote by Samuel Johnson
The duty of criticism is neither to depreciate nor dignify by partial representations, but to hold out the light of reason, whatever it may discover; and to promulgate the determinations of truth, whatever she shall dictate
Summary
This quote emphasizes the role and purpose of criticism. Its duty is not to unfairly devalue or exalt something through biased interpretations. Instead, criticism should use rational thinking to shed light on different perspectives and reveal what reason uncovers. The ultimate goal is to communicate the conclusions of truth, as guided by reason, no matter what they may be.