Bad Quotes
A clear conscience is the sure sign of a bad memory.
"A clear conscience is the sure sign of a bad memory."— Mark Twain
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Meaning of this quote
The joke questions whether a comfortable conscience always proves good conduct. Someone may feel blameless simply because they have forgotten the things that should trouble them.
Key takeaway:
Examine your memory and conduct before assuming you have nothing to reconsider.
Origin of the quote
Quote Investigator traces the joke family to a 1902 newspaper item and identifies Philander Chase Johnson as a leading candidate.
Who actually said this?
Likely misattributedThe research finds the Twain credit unsupported. The precise modern version evolved; distinguish the early candidate from authorship of every later variant.
