Quotes of Question
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A review of quotes on the web can emphasize the need for careful analysis of any information you get. I’m not talking about any extreme right/left or conspiracy theorist or any other such polemics. No, I want to look at well-intentioned aphorisms meant to uplift and offer guidance. Most will draw a respectful nod from the average reader. As with any information, the thoughtful reader must be appreciative and, at the same time, questioning the implications from many perspectives. The amount of information available, usually as short sound-bites, can be overwhelming. I am not nit picking; I respect all of the individuals quoted here, but there is a spectrum of believability between “Vaccines cause Autism” and these aphorisms. All I suggest is that we must always stop and think. Never accept anything at face value.
Here are some quotations followed by my comments:
§ To thine own self be true – Shakespeare
Many quotations are intended to motivate the individual and assume that the individual’s values are universally valid. Incidentally, Shakespeare gave this quote to Polonius in Hamlet and intended it as a platitude. However, it is often used as motivation taken out of context. Consider: anyone who commits a crime is being true to themselves. Indeed. If I am the measure of “true” then I can do anything I want.
There are many similar motivational aphorisms that place all values in the individual, make the individual the primary, if not sole, arbiter of the good. Here are some:
§ All’s well that ends well – Shakespeare
This, the title of a Shakespeare play, is questionable in at least two ways. First, whose values are used to measure “well”. If a person commits a crime and gets away with it, all is well with the criminal. Second, this implies that the end justifies the means. The politician who considers him/herself to be the salvation of their country excuses any action required to gain and keep power.
§ The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Eleanor Roosevelt
Sounds lovely but, again, the self is the measure of value. “Bad” people consider their dreams beautiful and act accordingly.
§ One man with courage makes a majority.” – Andrew Jackson
This predates today’s libertarianism, but it is hard to miss the common message. As with many quotes, the individual is more important than the community. Here, might makes right.
§ The whole secret of a successful life is to find out what is one’s destiny to do, and then do it. – Henry Ford
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§ You must be the change you wish to see in the world. -Mahatma Gandhi
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More at Random
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§ There is nothing more frightful than ignorance in action - Goethe
True if you observe someone stupid things out of ignorance. However, generally the ignorant, recognizing their ignorance, should actively seek education to fill the gap. Should a student never raise their hand? Should a scientist never test an idea? Should a chef never read a cookbook? Should you stop reading what I write? (Never mind, don’t answer that one).
§ The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing. -Walt Disney
Just do it! Sure we have encountered analysis paralysis and interminable meetings, but to proceed with a plan, without considering the consequences more often is a path to chaos and harm.
§ "He who is without sin cast the first stone" - Bible, John 8:7
§ “Judge not, lest ye be judged” Bible verse from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5–7
Every judge who sits on a bench must ignore their personal “sins” and make decisions in the best interest of society.
Again, question, stop and think, always try to keep values that support the harmony of the universe.