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About this quote

What does it mean?
It is easier and safer to cling to comforting false beliefs than to face complex and troubling realities.
In plain terms
People prefer nice lies over scary truths.
What can you take from it?
Seek truth even when it is uncomfortable.

Where it applies

  • personal growth
  • political discourse
  • decision making

Putting it to work

  • practice critical thinking
  • embrace discomfort

Questions to consider

  • What truth are you avoiding?
  • Is comfort worth the cost?

Another view

Sometimes comforting beliefs provide necessary mental stability.

More from John Kenneth Galbraith

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  3. You roll back the stones, and you find slithering things. That is the world of Richard Nixon.

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