Samuel Butler quote explanation
This quote expresses a somewhat cynical perspective on lying, suggesting that when we lie to someone, we are, in a way, paying them a compliment by acknowledging their superiority. Let’s break down the quote:
- “We pay a person the compliment”: This phrase introduces the idea that lying is framed as a form of flattery or acknowledgment of someone’s worth.
- “of acknowledging his superiority”: The core concept here is that lying implies recognizing the perceived superiority of the person being lied to. It suggests that the act of lying involves a certain deference to the other person’s judgment, emotions, or expectations.
In essence, the quote suggests that when we lie, we are often doing so out of a desire to spare someone’s feelings, protect their self-image, or avoid disappointing them. Lying, in this context, is seen as a way of showing respect or deference to the other person’s feelings or expectations. While the act of lying is generally considered dishonest, the quote frames it as a complex social phenomenon with underlying elements of social politeness or concern for the feelings of others.