"I listen to them freely and with all the respect merited by their intelligence, their character, their knowledge, reserving always my incontestable right of criticism and censure"
- Mikhail Bakunin
About this Quote
In this quote, Mikhail Bakunin reveals his method to listening to others. He mentions that he listens to them easily, suggesting without any presumptions or biases. He likewise listens with respect, acknowledging their intelligence, character, and understanding. However, he likewise makes it clear that he reserves the right to slam and censure their ideas. This reveals that while he values the opinions of others, he likewise preserves his own critical thinking and will not blindly accept whatever he hears. Bakunin's words highlight the significance of open-mindedness and crucial thinking in interaction and the exchange of ideas.
"A lawyer without history or literature is a mechanic, a mere working mason; if he possesses some knowledge of these, he may venture to call himself an architect"