Meaning: The quote "Deliberation, n.: The act of examining one's bread to determine which side it is buttered on" is a humorous and satirical definition of the term "deliberation" by Ambrose Bierce, an American journalist, and writer known for his wit and cynicism. This quote is taken from Bierce's famous work, "The Devil's Dictionary," a collection of humorous and sardonic definitions of various words.

In this quote, Bierce uses the metaphor of buttered bread to illustrate the concept of deliberation. The act of deliberation is often associated with careful consideration and thought before making a decision. However, Bierce's definition suggests that deliberation can also be driven by self-interest and the desire to determine which option will benefit oneself the most, much like examining a piece of bread to see which side has more butter.

The quote reflects Bierce's characteristic style of blending humor with social commentary. Through this definition, he subtly critiques human nature and the tendency to prioritize self-interest in decision-making processes. Bierce's use of wit and satire in his definitions allows him to highlight the absurdity and contradictions inherent in language and human behavior.

Ambrose Bierce's "The Devil's Dictionary" was first published in 1906 and has since become a classic work of satire and humor. The book consists of alphabetically arranged definitions of words, each offering a cynical or humorous perspective on the conventional meanings of the terms. Bierce's writing style, characterized by its sharp wit and incisive commentary on human nature, has made "The Devil's Dictionary" a timeless and influential work that continues to resonate with readers.

Bierce's definition of "deliberation" can be interpreted in various ways. On one level, it can be seen as a lighthearted and witty take on the human tendency to approach decision-making with a self-interested mindset. The image of examining bread to find the side with more butter adds a playful and relatable element to the definition, making it memorable and thought-provoking.

At the same time, the quote also serves as a critique of the opportunistic and calculating nature of human behavior. Bierce's choice of metaphor highlights the idea that deliberation is often driven by a desire for personal gain or advantage, rather than purely rational or ethical considerations. This satirical take on deliberation invites readers to reflect on the motivations behind their own decision-making processes and the role of self-interest in shaping their choices.

Overall, Bierce's definition of "deliberation" encapsulates the essence of his unique literary style, characterized by a blend of humor, satire, and social commentary. Through this quote and the rest of "The Devil's Dictionary," Bierce invites readers to question the conventional meanings of words and to consider the underlying complexities and contradictions within language and human behavior. His legacy as a writer and satirist continues to endure, and his work remains a source of inspiration and amusement for readers seeking a fresh perspective on the quirks of human nature and language.