“I shall never be ashamed of citing a bad author if the line is good.”
- c. 4 BC – AD 65
- Roman
- Philosopher, Statesman, Dramatist, Stoic Thinker, Advisor to Emperor Nero
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Quote
“I shall never be ashamed of citing a bad author if the line is good.”
Explanation
Seneca affirms the value of truth and wisdom regardless of its source. He insists that if a particular line holds meaning, insight, or beauty, it deserves recognition—even if it comes from a flawed or disreputable author. This reflects the Stoic ideal of intellectual humility: one should pursue truth over pride, and wisdom over prejudice. What matters is not who said it, but what is said, and whether it serves the good.
This mindset stands in contrast to the Roman elite’s tendency to dismiss ideas based on their origin, favoring prestige over substance. Seneca challenges this by asserting that even a “bad author” can offer something worth preserving. For the Stoic, clinging to appearances or reputations would be a failure of judgment, since the wise person must be able to extract value from any source, much like finding nourishment in unlikely places.
Today, the quote serves as a reminder to judge ideas on their merit, not on their pedigree. In a world where bias can prevent us from listening to opposing viewpoints or marginalized voices, Seneca’s words urge us to remain open to truth wherever it may appear. Intellectual honesty requires us to acknowledge value, even when it comes from those we otherwise critique or disregard.
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