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About this quote

What does it mean?
People often call good observation cynicism when they lack it themselves.
In plain terms
Clear seeing gets called cynicism by those who don't see clearly.
What can you take from it?
Don't mistake clear sight for cynicism.

Where it applies

  • critique
  • debate
  • self-awareness

Putting it to work

  • value accurate observation
  • question labels on truth

Questions to consider

  • Is your observation cynical or clear?
  • How do others label your sight?

Another view

Some observation may indeed be cynical in tone.

More from George Bernard Shaw

  1. The ordinary Britisher imagines that God is an Englishman

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  2. The road to ignorance is paved with good editions. Only the illiterate can afford to buy good books now.

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  3. The only time my education was interrupted was when I was in school.

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