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Better for them to deny the mind--and with it rationality…

“Better for them to deny the mind--and with it rationality, truth, and science itself--than to admit the soul. Once again, the secularist manifests the very dogmatism of which he accuses the religious believer, and in rationalizing it is willing to contemplate absurdities of which no religious…” quote by Edward Feser
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““Better for them to deny the mind--and with it rationality, truth, and science itself--than to admit the soul. Once again, the secularist manifests the very dogmatism of which he accuses the religious believer, and in rationalizing it is willing to contemplate absurdities of which no religious believer has ever dreamed.””

Edward Feser

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 argues that denying rationality to protect the soul is itself dogmatic, mirroring the religious dogmatism it critiques.

In simple terms: Denying reason to protect belief is still dogmatic.

Key Takeaway

Recognize bias in both secular and religious arguments.

Themes

dogmatism secularism religion reason truth

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • theological discussion
  • public policy
  • interfaith dialogue

Key Concepts

philosophy epistemology skepticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we avoid dogmatism when defending beliefs?
  • What standards should guide rational discourse?
A Different Perspective

Secular arguments may also rely on unexamined assumptions.

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