I'm a person who has always believed that you tell people the truth, and they'll make reasonable decisions. Truth is powerful.
John F. KerryRead
Democracy relies on free speech. Yes, say anything you want, but it relies even more on the speech being truthful. It is the truth, after all, that sets us free.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy depends on both the freedom to speak and the necessity for that speech to be honest.
This quote emphasizes the fundamental role of truthfulness in a democratic society. While free speech is essential for citizens to express themselves and share ideas, the integrity and accuracy of what is said is crucial, as it ultimately fosters a well-informed populace that can engage in meaningful discourse and make enlightened decisions, thereby reinforcing the very principles of democracy.
Themes
DemocracyFree SpeechTruthFreedomSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a debate on the importance of media accuracy.
More from John F. Kerry
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Here I am in the state of New Mexico. George Bush is still in the state of denial. New Mexico has five electoral votes. The state of denial has none. I like my chances.
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War should be not a war of choice; it should be a war of necessity. And it should be a last resort.
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I can't take my Catholic belief, my article of faith, and legislate it on a Protestant or a Jew or an Atheist. We have separation of church and state in the United States of America.
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