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It seems to me a fundamental dishonesty, and a fundamental…

“It seems to me a fundamental dishonesty, and a fundamental treachery to intellectual integrity to hold a belief because you think it's useful and not because you think it's true.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“It seems to me a fundamental dishonesty, and a fundamental treachery to intellectual integrity to hold a belief because you think it's useful and not because you think it's true.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Holding beliefs for convenience, not truth, betrays intellectual honesty and integrity.

In simple terms: Truth matters more than usefulness.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize truth over convenience.

Themes

integrity truth honesty

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • policy making
  • personal belief systems

Key Concepts

intellectual honesty ethical reasoning

Questions to Reflect On

  • What costs arise from valuing truth?
  • How do you balance truth and practicality?
A Different Perspective

Convenient falsehoods can be socially advantageous.

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