The dictum that truth always triumphs over persecution, is one of those pleasant falsehoods which men repeat after one another till they pass into commonplaces, but which all experience refutes. History teems with instances of truth put down by persecution. If not suppressed for ever, it may be thrown back for centuries. (pp. 36-37)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Truth does not always win against persecution; history shows it can be suppressed for centuries.
- In plain terms
- The idea that truth always wins is false; history shows persecution can silence truth for a long time.
- What can you take from it?
- Do not assume truth will naturally defeat oppression.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why do truths get suppressed?
- How do we protect truth?
Another view
It overlooks cases where truth eventually prevails despite opposition.
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