The discovery of this reality is hindered rather than…
““The discovery of this reality is hindered rather than helped by belief, whether one believes in God or believes in atheism. We must here make a clear distinction between belief and faith, because, in general practice, belief has come to mean a state of mind which is almost the opposite of faith. Belief, as I use the word here, is the insistence that the truth is what one would “lief” or wish it to be. The believer will open his mind to the truth on condition that it fits in with his preconceived ideas and wishes. Faith, on the other hand, is an unreserved opening of the mind to the truth, whatever it may turn out to be. Faith has no preconceptions; it is a plunge into the unknown. Belief clings, but faith lets go. In this sense of the word, faith is the essential virtue of science, and likewise of any religion that is not self-deception.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Faith is open‑minded acceptance of truth; belief clings to wishful thinking.
In simple terms: Faith opens mind; belief closes it.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate faith, not rigid belief.
Themes
faith
belief
science
religion
Mood
reflective
philosophical
Type
inspirational
critical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- scientific research
- interfaith dialogue
- education reform
Key Concepts
open‑mindedness
epistemology
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does faith differ from belief in practice?
- When is belief useful?
A Different Perspective
Faith without evidence can become blind; balance is needed.