We cannot begin with complete doubt. We must begin with…
“We cannot begin with complete doubt. We must begin with all the prejudices which we actually have when we enter upon the study ofphilosophy. These prejudices are not to be dispelled by a maxim, for they are things which it does not occur to us can be questioned. A person may, it is true, in the course of his studies, find reason to doubt what he began by believing; but in that case he doubts because he has a positive reason for it, and not on account of the Cartesian maxim. Let us not pretend to doubt in philosophy what we do not doubt in our hearts.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Philosophy must start from our actual biases, not from abstract doubt; genuine doubt arises from reason, not from forced skepticism.
In simple terms: Begin with what you truly believe, not with imagined doubt.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and examine your own biases.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
bias
skepticism
Mood
analytical
introspective
Type
philosophical
instructive
When to use this quote
- academic study
- personal reflection
- debate
- research
Key Concepts
critical thinking
self-awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- What biases shape your thinking?
- When have you doubted a belief for a good reason?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on bias may hinder open inquiry.