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As for the clergy - No - If I say a word against them, I'll be shot. - I have no desire, - and besides, if I had, - I durst not for my soul touch upon the subject, - with such weak nerves and spirits, and in the condition I am in at present, 'twould be as much as my life was worth, to deject and contrist myself with so bad and melancholy an account, - and therefore, 'tis safer to draw a curtain across, and hasten from it, as fast as I can, to the main and principal point I have undertaken to clear up, - and that is, How it comes to pass, that your men of least wit are reported to be men of most judgment.

Laurence Sterne#19

SpeechAuthorityCensorshipCourageFearReligion

About this quote

What does it mean?
Avoids criticizing the clergy due to fear, shifting focus to another topic.
In plain terms
Too scared to criticize religious leaders.
What can you take from it?
Recognize when fear silences critique.

Where it applies

  • religious critique
  • political speech
  • sensitive topics

Putting it to work

  • discuss safely
  • weigh risks

Questions to consider

  • When is silence safe?
  • What risks come with speaking out?

Another view

Silence may enable bad behavior.

More from Laurence Sterne

  1. Of all the cants which are canted in this canting world, - though the cant of hypocrites may be the worst, - the cant of criticism is the most tormenting!

    Permalink to quote #18
  2. I have got him fast hung up, quoth Didius to himself, upon one of the two horns of my dilemma - let him get off as he can.

    Permalink to quote #20
  3. Our armies swore terribly in Flanders, cried my uncle Toby, - but nothing to this. - For my own part, I could not have a heart to curse my dog so.

    Permalink to quote #17

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