An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does truth become error because nobody sees it.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote highlights the distinction between truth and falsehood, emphasizing that the prevalence or acceptance of an idea does not determine its accuracy or truthfulness. It challenges the notion that truth can be altered or compromised by the mere repetition or widespread belief in a falsehood.
The quote implies that truth is not subject to the influence of popular opinion or the number of people who perceive it. Truth remains unchanged and independent of societal consensus or the lack thereof. Similarly, an error or falsehood does not transform into truth through repeated dissemination.
By conveying this message, the quote encourages critical thinking, discernment, and an objective evaluation of ideas and information. It reminds us that the validity of a statement or belief should be assessed based on evidence, reason, and a commitment to seeking the truth, rather than blindly following prevailing narratives or popular opinion.
The quote also highlights the importance of individual responsibility in discerning truth and seeking knowledge. It urges us to rely on our own judgment and intellectual curiosity rather than passively accepting information without question. Truth, therefore, resides not in the collective perception but in the quest for understanding and the pursuit of knowledge.
Who said the quote?
The quote "An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does truth become error because nobody sees it." was said by Mahatma Gandhi (Bio / Quotes). Mahatma Gandhi was an Indian political and spiritual leader who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
Consider the case of Galileo Galilei during the 17th century. Galileo, an Italian astronomer and physicist, championed the heliocentric model of the solar system, which proposed that the Earth and other planets revolve around the Sun. This was in direct opposition to the geocentric model, which held that the Earth was the center of the universe and was widely accepted by the Church and scholars of the time.
Despite Galileo's rigorous observations and evidence supporting the heliocentric theory, his ideas were met with fierce resistance and skepticism. The prevailing belief in the geocentric model was deeply entrenched in religious and scientific institutions. Galileo faced significant opposition and was eventually tried by the Roman Catholic Church, which declared his findings heretical. He was forced to recant his views and spent the remainder of his life under house arrest.
Galileo's experience illustrates the quote's message that the truth of a scientific discovery or theory is not determined by the number of people who accept or reject it. Even though the majority, including powerful institutions, rejected Galileo's heliocentric theory at the time, this did not make it any less true. The truth of his findings was not contingent upon widespread acceptance or visibility; it was determined by the evidence and scientific validity of his observations. Today, Galileo's heliocentric model is recognized as a cornerstone of modern astronomy, proving that truth is independent of the number of people who recognize it or the challenges faced in its acceptance.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying this quote to real-life scenarios can be highly relevant, particularly when dealing with controversial or unconventional ideas. For instance, consider the world of innovation and entrepreneurship. Often, new ideas or startups face skepticism and resistance when they challenge existing norms or established industries.
Take the example of the initial skepticism surrounding electric vehicles (EVs). For many years, electric cars were dismissed as impractical and unviable compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Numerous obstacles, including limited technology, high costs, and entrenched automotive traditions, led many to believe that EVs would never become mainstream. Yet, this skepticism did not change the fundamental potential and benefits of electric vehicles.
The truth about electric vehicles—such as their potential to reduce emissions and dependency on fossil fuels—remained unchanged, regardless of the initial lack of acceptance and visibility. As technology advanced and societal attitudes shifted, electric vehicles gained traction and are now becoming an integral part of the automotive industry. This illustrates that the validity of an idea or innovation is not contingent upon immediate acceptance or widespread visibility. Instead, it is driven by the underlying truth and value of the idea itself.
In personal and professional settings, this quote can encourage individuals to persist in their convictions and ideas, even when faced with doubt or opposition. It emphasizes the importance of standing firm on principles and truths, rather than being swayed by popular opinion or temporary setbacks. Whether advocating for a novel approach at work, supporting a new policy, or pursuing a personal goal, recognizing that truth is not subject to approval or visibility can help maintain focus and drive progress despite challenges.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
