Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There’s no better rule.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote, from Charles Dickens' novel "Great Expectations," imparts a valuable lesson about the importance of discernment and critical thinking. It emphasizes the need to base our judgments and decisions on concrete evidence rather than superficial appearances.
Discernment Over Superficiality: The quote suggests that appearances can be deceiving and that relying solely on how something or someone looks can lead to mistaken judgments. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and seek concrete evidence to form accurate assessments.
Value of Evidence: By emphasizing the importance of evidence, the quote underscores the significance of facts, information, and careful observation in decision-making. It promotes a rational and thoughtful approach to evaluating situations and people.
Practical Wisdom: The quote offers practical wisdom for navigating the complexities of life. It serves as a reminder to avoid hasty judgments or assumptions and to gather sufficient evidence before drawing conclusions. This approach can lead to more informed and fair decisions.
In essence, "Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule" encourages us to be critical thinkers and discerning individuals. It reminds us that relying solely on appearances can lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments. Instead, we should seek evidence and information to make informed decisions and form accurate perceptions of the world around us. This quote advocates for a thoughtful and rational approach to understanding and engaging with the complexities of life.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Take nothing on its looks; take everything on evidence. There's no better rule." is often attributed to Charles Dickens (Quotes). Charles Dickens, the beloved English novelist, crafted timeless stories like "A Tale of Two Cities" and "Oliver Twist," capturing the social issues of his era.
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.