Apologys for self-evident Truths can never have any effect…
“Apologys for self-evident Truths can never have any effect on those who have so little Sense as to deny them. They are the Foundation of all Reasoning, and the only just Bottom on which Men can proceed in convincing one another of the Truth: and by consequence whoever is capable of denying them, is not in a condition to be informed.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that denying obvious truths undermines rational discourse; only those who accept basic truths can engage in meaningful argument.
In simple terms: Denying basic truths blocks reasoned debate.
Accept foundational truths before arguing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- debate
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What basic truths do we take for granted?
- How can we address denial of obvious facts?
People may reject truths for emotional reasons despite logical evidence.