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What a chimaera then is man, what a novelty, what a…

“What a chimaera then is man, what a novelty, what a monster, what chaos, what a subject of contradiction, what a prodigy! Judge of all things, yet an imbecile earthworm; depository of truth, yet a sewer of uncertainty and error; pride and refuse of the universe. Who shall resolve this tangle?” quote by Blaise Pascal
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“What a chimaera then is man, what a novelty, what a monster, what chaos, what a subject of contradiction, what a prodigy! Judge of all things, yet an imbecile earthworm; depository of truth, yet a sewer of uncertainty and error; pride and refuse of the universe. Who shall resolve this tangle?”

Blaise Pascal

About This Quote

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

The quote highlights humanity's paradoxical nature: capable of great insight yet prone to error and folly, embodying both lofty aspirations and base instincts.

In simple terms: Humans are both brilliant and flawed.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility and seek truth.

Themes

human nature paradox knowledge pride error

Mood

contemplative critical inquisitive

Type

aphilosophical reflective motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • scientific inquiry
  • ethical decision making
  • leadership challenges

Key Concepts

philosophy existentialism dualism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you reconcile your strengths with your weaknesses?
  • What practices help you discern truth amid uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

Human potential is limited by cognitive biases and emotional turbulence.

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