Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.
Meaning
He highlights the danger of blind belief and manipulation. False ideas can lead to harmful actions.
Best Motivation Quotes with Meaning
Share image
Preview of the image used when this quote is shared on social networks.
About the author
(1694–1778) was a French writer and philosopher known for his advocacy of freedom of speech, religion, and expression. His works, including "Candide," critique intolerance and injustice. Voltaire’s wit and intellect made him a key figure in the Enlightenment. His ideas influenced political and social reform. Voltaire’s legacy continues to shape modern thought and values.
Why This Quote Matters
This quote places Powers beside everyday choices, where small shifts add up. The line’s force is that He highlights the danger of blind belief and manipulation.
False ideas can lead to harmful actions. It also scales: teams and families benefit when language like this is shared.
How to Apply This Quote in Life
When motivation dips, return to Powers and the smallest next step forward.
Ask “what would Voltaire notice here?” and adjust one detail. Revisit monthly; the same line will surface new specifics as your life changes.
Related quotes
-
“One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.”
Meaning: De Beauvoir argues that gender identity is shaped by social and cultural influences rather than biology alone. Society plays a major role in defining roles and expectations. -
“Ideas are more powerful than we commonly understand.”
Meaning: Concepts and theories shape real-world outcomes. -
“Public opinion has the power to determine success or failure.”
Meaning: The support and trust of people strongly influence leadership and society. Public confidence can shape major outcomes and decisions. -
“Ill fares the land, to hastening ills a prey, where wealth accumulates, and men decay.”
Meaning: Judt uses this line to warn about inequality and moral decline. When wealth becomes concentrated and social values erode, societies face instability and injustice. -
“Unity strengthens societies by bringing together diverse perspectives.”
Meaning: This quote emphasizes that diversity can be a strength when people collaborate and work together. -
“Education is the foundation of a strong and innovative society.”
Meaning: It shows that knowledge and learning are essential for progress and development. -
“Never attempt to win by force what can be won by deception.”
Meaning: Strategy and intelligence are often more effective than brute force. -
“Belief is the foundation upon which achievement is built.”
Meaning: Belief drives success. -
“The most basic question is not what is best, but who shall decide what is best.”
Meaning: Sowell emphasizes the importance of authority and decision-making in policy and society, questioning who has the right to determine outcomes. -
“Always say less than necessary.”
Meaning: Silence increases influence and control.