The long tradition of naivete and self-righteousness that disfigures our intellectual history, however, must serve as a warning to the third world, if such a warning is needed, as to how our protestations of sincerity and benign intent are to be interpreted.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- History shows that claims of sincerity are often interpreted as propaganda.
- In plain terms
- Past hypocrisy makes current claims suspect.
- What can you take from it?
- Actions speak louder than stated intentions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do you trust stated intentions?
- How can you verify sincerity?
Another view
Some actors do act in good faith.
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