The registering of doubts hath two excellent uses: the…
“The registering of doubts hath two excellent uses: the one, that it saveth philosophy from errors and falsehoods; when that which is not fully appearing is not collected into assertion, whereby error might draw error, but reserved in doubt: the other, that the entry of doubts are as so many suckers or sponges to draw use of knowledge; insomuch as that which, if doubts had not preceded, a man should never have advised, but passed it over without note, by the suggestion and solicitation of doubts, is made to be attended and applied.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Doubt protects philosophy by preventing premature assertions and by prompting deeper inquiry.
In simple terms: Doubt prevents errors and encourages deeper thinking.
Key Takeaway
Embrace doubt to refine ideas.
Themes
philosophy
critical thinking
epistemology
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- legal reasoning
- personal decision making
- teaching
Key Concepts
skepticism
error prevention
intellectual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- When does doubt become unproductive?
- How can you balance confidence and skepticism?
A Different Perspective
Excessive doubt can lead to paralysis and indecision.