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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lincoln expresses trust in the people to handle crises if they are given accurate facts.
In plain terms
He believes people can solve problems if you tell them the truth.
What can you take from it?
Transparency enables the public to handle crises.

Where it applies

  • crisis management
  • public communication
  • policy implementation

Putting it to work

  • sharing facts
  • informing the public
  • building trust

Questions to consider

  • Does truth always lead to rational decisions?
  • How much trust should leaders place in the public?

Another view

Facts alone may not overcome deep-seated prejudice or misinformation.

More from Abraham Lincoln

  1. He has the right to criticize who has the heart to help.

    Permalink to quote #107
  2. I am not concerned that you have fallen; I am concerned that you arise.

    Permalink to quote #109
  3. He can compress the most words into the smallest ideas of any man I ever met.

    Permalink to quote #106

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