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Anyone who feels the urge to undertake such a task must dedicate himself for his labors as he would prepare for a pilgrimage to distant lands. He must spare no time or effort, fear no earthly power or rank, and rise above his own vanity or false modesty in order to tell, in accordance with the expression of the Code Napoleon, the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

Karl von Clausewitz#35

DutyTruth

About this quote

What does it mean?
Tell the whole truth without fear, like a religious duty.
In plain terms
Share truth without fear.
What can you take from it?
Dedicate to truth.

Where it applies

  • journalism
  • leadership

Putting it to work

  • ethical reporting
  • leadership

Questions to consider

  • Is truth always the best policy?

Another view

Truth can be dangerous.

More from Karl von Clausewitz

  1. Thus it has come about that our theoretical and critical literature, instead of giving plain, straightforward arguments in which the author at least always kno…

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  2. A prince or general can best demonstrate his genius by managing a campaign exactly to suit his objectives and his resources, doing neither too much nor too lit…

    Permalink to quote #36
  3. There are times when the utmost daring is the height of wisdom.

    Permalink to quote #33

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