Laws are like sausages. You sleep far better the less you know about how they are made.
Otto Von BismarckRead
Never believe anything in politics until it has been officially denied.
Interpretation
What this quote means
In politics, skepticism is crucial; official denials often indicate truth.
This quote suggests that in the realm of politics, one should approach information with a degree of skepticism, particularly when it comes to denials made by those in power. Bismarck implies that official statements are often crafted to mislead, and understanding the truth requires a critical eye, particularly regarding the actions and intentions of political figures.
Themes
PoliticsSkepticismTruthDenialPower
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about political scandals.
More from Otto Von Bismarck
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With a gentleman I am always a gentleman and a half, and with a fraud I try to be a fraud and a half.
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Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable β the art of the next best
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It is the destiny of the weak to be devoured by the strong.
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A generation that has taken a beating is always followed by a generation that deals one.
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