Quora: Be nice or shut up?
Q: The saying goes, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” Is this good advice?
A: The sentiment behind it is fair, as those who use the phrase often do so to keep things civil. They see no need for harsh words, complaints or criticism.
This is good advice when you’re 5 years old in kindergarten and need to learn how to ‘play well with others’. Not bully them, call them names and so on. (Lessons quickly forgotten the minute someone enters into politics.)
When you are 35 and catch your colleague stealing from the cash register, this is terrible advice. Calling someone a thief is obviously not ‘nice’, even if it is true. However, telling them off and reporting it to the boss is just being responsible, not mean.
Keeping it civil is commendable, but if something bothers you – speak up.