“Knavery and flattery are blood relations.”
- February 12, 1809 – April 15, 1865
- American
- Politician, lawyer
- As the 16th President of the United States, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation and led the Civil War to maintain the unity of the nation.
Quote
“Knavery and flattery are blood relations.”
Explanation
This quote highlights the intrinsic connection between deceit and excessive praise. By calling knavery (dishonesty or trickery) and flattery (insincere praise) “blood relations,” Lincoln suggests that they are closely linked and often go hand-in-hand in undermining truth and integrity. Flattery is often used as a tool to manipulate or deceive others, much like knavery itself, which thrives on deceit and self-interest.
In the context of Lincoln’s time, this could be seen as a reflection on the political landscape, where leaders or public figures might use flattery to gain favor, hide their true intentions, or manipulate the opinions of the public. The quote serves as a warning to be cautious of those who excessively flatter, as their motives may not be as pure as they seem.
In modern times, the quote can still be applied to political rhetoric or corporate environments, where flattery and deceit are often used to gain power, influence, or advantage. It serves as a reminder to look beyond surface-level praise and be wary of the true intentions behind excessive compliments or attempts to gain favor.
