"Freedom and order are not incompatible... truth is strength... free discussion is the very life of truth"
- Thomas Huxley
About this Quote
This quote by Thomas Huxley speaks to the value of flexibility and order in society. He recommends that these two ideas are not equally unique, but rather, they can exist side-by-side in consistency. He likewise stresses the value of fact, noting that it is a source of strength. Lastly, he suggests that free discussion is necessary for the fact to be exposed. This indicates that open discussion and dispute are needed for the truth to be discovered. Huxley's quote is a tip that freedom and order are both important for a healthy society, and that truth is the structure of a strong and simply society. In addition, it suggests that complimentary conversation is vital for the truth to be exposed and for progress to be made.