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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author admits to being forceful and confident that his advice solves all human issues.
In plain terms
I am opinionated and think my advice fixes everything.
What can you take from it?
Recognize the confidence and potential arrogance in giving universal advice.

Where it applies

  • debating policy
  • offering unsolicited help
  • political discourse

Putting it to work

  • question universal claims
  • seek diverse views
  • audit your own biases

Questions to consider

  • When do you assume you know the best solution?
  • How do others react to your strong opinions?

Another view

Not all human problems can be solved by following a single person's advice.

More from Gore Vidal

  1. The theater needs continual reminders that there is nothing more debasing than the work of those who do well what is not worth doing at all.

    Permalink to quote #2
  2. At any given moment, public opinion is a chaos of superstition, misinformation, and prejudice.

    Permalink to quote #3
  3. The more money an American accumulates the less interesting he himself becomes.

    Permalink to quote #4

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