But when fundamentals are doubted, as at present, we must…
““But when fundamentals are doubted, as at present, we must try to recover the candour and wonder of the child; the unspoilt realism and objectivity of innocence. Or if we cannot do that, we must try at least to shake off the cloud of mere custom and see the thing as new, if only by seeing it as unnatural. Things that may well be familiar so long as familiarity breeds affection had much better become unfamiliar when familiarity breeds contempt. For in connection with things so great as are here considered, whatever our view of them, contempt must be a mistake. Indeed contempt must be an illusion. We must invoke the most wild and soaring sort of imagination; the imagination that can see what is there.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
When basic beliefs are questioned, we should regain childlike curiosity and objectivity, or at least discard stale customs to view things anew, because contempt distorts truth.
In simple terms: Regain childlike wonder or discard stale habits to see truth.
Key Takeaway
Seek fresh perspective, avoid contempt.
Themes
curiosity
imagination
objectivity
contempt
truth
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- creative work
- personal growth
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you cultivate childlike curiosity in routine tasks?
- What customs might be limiting your perception?
A Different Perspective
Contempt can be a protective bias that blinds us to nuance.