“Men use thought only as authority for their injustice, and employ speech only to conceal their thoughts.”
- November 21, 1694 – May 30, 1778
- Born in France
- Philosopher, man of letters, historian
- Wrote many works, including “Philosophy of History,” “De Toleration,” “Philosophical Dictionary,” “Philosophical Letters,” “Oedipus,” and “Candide,” and is known as a pioneer of Enlightenment thought.
Quote
“Men use thought only as authority for their injustice, and employ speech only to conceal their thoughts.”
Explanation
This quote reflects Voltaire’s critical view of human tendencies to misuse intellect and language for self-serving purposes. He suggests that people often justify their unjust actions by appealing to reasoning or ideology, using “thought” as a facade for their true motives. Similarly, speech, rather than being a tool for honest communication, is frequently employed to obscure intentions or manipulate others. This cynical observation highlights the gap between human ideals and behavior.
In modern contexts, this idea resonates in discussions about political rhetoric, propaganda, and ethical failures. For example, leaders or institutions may invoke lofty principles or rational arguments to justify questionable policies, masking ulterior motives such as power or greed. This dual misuse of thought and speech undermines trust and creates a barrier to genuine understanding and progress.
A specific example can be seen in corporate or political scandals. Public statements often downplay wrongdoing or shift blame, while internal actions contradict the declared values. Voltaire’s quote remains a sharp reminder to approach reasoning and communication critically, striving for transparency and integrity in both thought and speech.
