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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lies that take root in the mind cause real harm, not passing ones.
In plain terms
False beliefs that stick hurt more than ones that pass quickly.
What can you take from it?
Deeply held lies are most dangerous.

Where it applies

  • media consumption
  • politics
  • relationships

Putting it to work

  • verify before accepting
  • challenge deep beliefs

Questions to consider

  • What false belief has taken root in you?
  • How do you test deep convictions?

Another view

It overlooks that truth can also settle and harm if mistaken.

More from Francis Bacon

  1. Truth is a naked and open daylight, that doth not shew the masks and mummeries and triumphs of the world, half so stately and daintily as candlelights.

    Permalink to quote #65
  2. Certainly, it is heaven upon earth, to have a man's mind move in charity, rest in providence, and turn upon the poles of truth.

    Permalink to quote #67
  3. No pleasure is comparable to the standing upon the vantage-ground of truth.

    Permalink to quote #64

Related quotes

  1. Till their own dreams at length decive 'em, And oft repeating, they believe 'em.

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  2. I did not deceive you, mon ami. At most, I permitted you to deceive yourself.

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  3. It is startling to realize how much unbelief is necessary to make belief possible. What we know as blind faith is sustained by innumerable unbeliefs.

    Eric HofferEric Hoffer quote #20