[Rousseau] has not had the precaution to throw any veil…
“[Rousseau] has not had the precaution to throw any veil over his sentiments; and as he scorns to dissemble his contempt of established opinions, he could not wonder that all the zealots were in arms against him.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Criticizing those who hide their bias, Hume warns that zealotry stems from unexamined contempt for mainstream views.
In simple terms: Blind contempt fuels conflict; be open to critique.
Question assumptions, avoid dogma.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- debates
- political activism
- academic discourse
- media commentary
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What biases do you conceal?
- How can dissent be expressed constructively?
Zealots may have legitimate grievances despite their tone.