It is our hope, that men in proportion as they grow more…
“It is our hope, that men in proportion as they grow more enlightened, will learn to hold their theories and their creeds more loosely, and will none the less, nay, rather all the more be devoted to the supreme end of practical righteousness to which all theories and creeds must be kept subservient.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Enlightenment should make people more flexible with ideas, prioritizing practical morality over rigid doctrines.
In simple terms: More knowledge should lead to looser beliefs and focus on doing good.
Value practical righteousness over strict theory.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- personal growth
- community leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure ideas remain tools, not idols?
- What practices keep morality actionable?
Rigid doctrines can still dominate despite enlightenment.