"When a thing is said to be not worth refuting you may be sure that either it is flagrantly stupid - in which case all comment is superfluous - or it is something formidable, the very crux of the problem"

This quote by Percy Bysshe Shelley is a suggestion that when something is stated to be not worth refuting, it is likely either exceptionally silly or something that is really challenging to refute. If it is the former, then any comment is unneeded as it is so undoubtedly incorrect. Nevertheless, if it is the latter, then it is most likely the most fundamental part of the problem. This quote is a tip to be careful when assessing a declaration and to consider the implications of it holding true or incorrect. It is likewise a reminder to be aware of the power of words and how they can be used to manipulate or persuade. Ultimately, this quote is a pointer to think critically and to be knowledgeable about the power of words.