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Aphorism

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Jargon, buzzwords, slogans

An Aphorism is a form of communication that is intended to be easily memorized, generally word for word and most often have some pithy religious or philosophical comment on the world.

Several examples include: "Let those who have ears, hear" -- Jesus "In nature, there are neither rewards nor punishments — there are consequences."

Almost every aphorism has an opposite aphorism. This is taught in basic communication courses. Most people still find them clever though.

Aphorisms in politics

Aphorisms are often overused when candidates compete for votes. One could easily imagine a debate between two presidential nominees sounding something like this:

  • McCain: Look before you leap.
  • Obama: He who hesitates is lost.
  • McCain: Clothes make the man.
  • Obama: Never judge a book by its cover.
  • McCain: When in Rome do as the Romans do.
  • Obama: To thine own self be true.
  • McCain: Absence makes the heart grow fonder.
  • Obama: Out of sight, out of mind.
  • McCain: Better safe than sorry.
  • Obama: Nothing ventured, nothing gained
  • McCain: The more the merrier.
  • Obama: Two's company three's a crowd.
  • McCain: It's never too late to learn.
  • Obama: You can't teach an old dog new tricks.
  • McCain: Has the cat got your tongue?
  • Obama: Don't let the cat out of the bag.
  • McCain: Let sleeping dogs lie.
  • Obama: Leave no stone unturned.
  • McCain: I know you are but what am I...
  • Obama: I am rubber you are glue....