It is dangerous to be sincere unless you are also stupid.[1]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Shaw suggests sincerity can be risky if not paired with wisdom or caution.
- In plain terms
- Truth without care can hurt you.
- What can you take from it?
- Be careful with honesty if it puts you at risk.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is silence better?
- Is honesty always the best policy?
Another view
Sincerity is often valued over caution in ethical contexts.
More from George Bernard Shaw
Titles distinguish the mediocre, embarrass the superior, and are disgraced by the inferior.
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Permalink to quote #124 Beware of the man who does not return your blow: he neither forgives you nor allows you to forgive yourself.
Permalink to quote #121
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