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About this quote

What does it mean?
Using force or noise to argue shows weak reasoning.
In plain terms
If you shout to win, your argument is weak.
What can you take from it?
Strong arguments stand without force or noise.

Where it applies

  • debates
  • management
  • conflict resolution

Putting it to work

  • listen before speaking
  • build evidence-based arguments

Questions to consider

  • Why do people use noise to argue?
  • Can truth win without power?

Another view

Sometimes volume is necessary for safety or attention.

More from Michel de Montaigne

  1. Hath God obliged himself not to exceed the bounds of our knowledge?

    Permalink to quote #72
  2. He who fears he shall suffer, already suffers what he fears.

    Permalink to quote #74
  3. Fortune, seeing that she could not make fools wise, has made them lucky.

    Permalink to quote #71

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