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About this quote

What does it mean?
Every word carries prejudice, according to Nietzsche.
In plain terms
Words are never neutral.
What can you take from it?
Examine hidden biases in language.

Where it applies

  • writing
  • dialogue

Putting it to work

  • critical reading
  • editing

Questions to consider

  • How can we reduce bias in speech?
  • When is a word truly neutral?

Another view

Not all words are intentionally prejudiced; context matters.

More from Friedrich Nietzsche

  1. The future influences the present just as much as the past.

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  2. The greatest events are not our loudest hours, but rather our most quiet.

    Permalink to quote #209
  3. Here the ways of men part: if you wish to strive for peace of soul and pleasure, then believe; if you wish to be a devotee of truth, then inquire.

    Permalink to quote #206

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