“Things are more like they are now than they ever were before.”
- October 14, 1890 – March 28, 1969
- American
- The 34th President of the United States, General, Military Leader
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Quote
“Things are more like they are now than they ever were before.”
Explanation
This quote, often attributed to Eisenhower, is a humorous and intentionally paradoxical observation that plays with the language of change and perception. On the surface, it seems tautological—of course things are more like they are now, because it is now. But the deeper humor lies in how it satirizes the way people often speak about progress or current affairs in vague or overly grand terms, without saying much of substance.
The historical context likely places this quote in a lighthearted or informal setting, perhaps during a press conference or conversation where Eisenhower used wit to deflect a question or offer commentary on the complexities of modern life. It reveals his capacity for dry humor and self-deprecation, often deployed to ease tension or underscore the absurdities of political rhetoric.
Today, this quote is often cited to poke fun at political doublespeak or the tendency to state the obvious in convoluted ways. It also serves as a reminder that even powerful leaders benefit from humor and humility, and that not all wisdom comes in solemn packages. Whether taken as a joke or a subtle critique, Eisenhower’s quip shows that clarity, not complication, is the mark of meaningful speech.
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