Quote by John Quincy Adams

All men profess honesty as long as they can. To believe all men honest would be folly. To believe none so is something worse.

All men profess honesty as long as they can. To believe all

Summary

This quote highlights the inherent complexity of human nature regarding honesty. It suggests that all individuals claim to be honest when it benefits them, but blindly trusting everyone's honesty would be foolish. However, considering no one as honest is even more problematic. It implies that judgment regarding individuals' honesty should be based on careful evaluation and discernment, rather than absolute trust or complete skepticism. The quote urges a balanced perspective in navigating the complexities of honesty within human interactions.

Topics

Men

By John Quincy Adams

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