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About this quote

What does it mean?
Only falsehood requires external trappings like fame, robes, or crowns to seem legitimate.
In plain terms
Only lies need fancy titles and crowns to look real.
What can you take from it?
Truth stands alone; falsehood needs props.

Where it applies

  • politics
  • religion
  • public leadership

Putting it to work

  • value substance over style
  • question grand titles
  • seek transparent leaders

Questions to consider

  • What makes authority seem real?
  • Do titles hide truth?

Another view

Symbols can also represent unity, not just deception.

More from Robert G. Ingersoll

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  2. Now and then somebody examines, and in spite of all keeps his manhood, and has the courage to follow where his reason leads. Then the pious get together and re…

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