Supporting the Good Side
Supporting the good side. This expression comes from a speech by Benjamin Disraeli (1864) concerning the problems raised by Darwin’s theory that mankind is descended from apes: “The question is this: Is man an ape or an angel? Now I am on the side of the angels.” The phrase was later extended to mean siding with goodness and upholding the moral or spiritual view.
Similar Terms and Related Expressions:
- “White knight”: Someone who comes to the rescue in a morally commendable way.
- “In the light”: Referring to a state of moral or spiritual rally clarity.
- “Virtue signaling”: Often derogatory; outwardly parading moral superiority.
- “Good Samaritan”: Chronicled in the parable from the Bible, it references someone who helps a stranger in distress.
Synonyms
- Righteous
- Noble
- Virtuous
- Saintly
Antonyms
- Villainous
- Devious
- Wicked
- Corrupt
Humor-Filled Quotes:
- “I asked the genie to grant me the power to always side with the angels. He gave me a conscience instead. Now I annoy everyone at parties.”
- “Being on the side of angels is great, but let’s face it, I could use their flying abilities more.”
Antiquated Proverbs:
- “The road to Hell is paved with good intentions.”
- “Honesty is the first chapter in the book of wisdom.”
Literature, Songs, Poems, Movies:
- Literature: “Good Omens” by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett – a comical tale of angels and demons.
- Songs: “Angel” by Sarah McLachlan – a soothing song evoking a sense of spiritual uplifting.
- Poems: “The Angels’ Hour” by Ella Wheeler Wilcox – a beautiful meditation on the nature of goodness.
- Movies: “City of Angels” – a romantic drama showcasing celestial beings intervening in human lives.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell: As you journey through the moral mazes of life, may you always find yourself on the side of the angels – for in each battle for goodness, every flurry of righteousness sings out louder than the storm.
### What origin story does "supporting the good side" have?
- [ ] A Roman legend
- [x] A speech by Benjamin Disraeli in 1864
- [ ] Shakespeare's Macbeth
- [ ] A line from Homer's Iliad
> **Explanation:** The phrase originates from a speech by Benjamin Disraeli in 1864, dealing with Darwin's theory and choosing to uphold the spiritual belief that humans are closer to angels than apes.
### Select the synonymous phrase for "supporting the good side":
- [ ] Walking through fire
- [ ] Falling off the wagon
- [ ] Catching forty winks
- [x] Riding a white horse
> **Explanation:** "Riding a white horse" is concomitant with rescuing or morally supporting others, akin to "supporting the good side."
### Which phrase doesn't align with "supporting the good side"?
- [ ] A beacon of hope
- [ ] A white knight
- [x] Devil's advocate
- [ ] A Good Samaritan
> **Explanation:** "Devil's advocate" implies arguing against a notion to provoke critical thinking, whereas the others directly connote supporting goodness.
### True or False: The phrase "supporting the good side" extends to upholding moral views.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True. It signifies siding with goodness and favoring moral or spiritual perspectives.
### Which book depicts the battle between the good side and evil?
- [x] Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
- [ ] Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
- [ ] The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- [x] Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
> **Explanation:** "Good Omens" wonderfully encapsulates the battle between good and evil, making it apt for this thematic discussion.
