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We think so because all other people think so; Or…

“We think so because all other people think so; Or because-or because-after all, we do think so; Or because we were told so, and think we must think so; Or because we once thought so, and think we still think so; Or because, having thought so, we think we will think so.” quote by Henry Sidgwick
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“We think so because all other people think so; Or because-or because-after all, we do think so; Or because we were told so, and think we must think so; Or because we once thought so, and think we still think so; Or because, having thought so, we think we will think so.”

Henry Sidgwick

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People adopt beliefs because of social influence, authority, habit, and self‑reinforcement, creating a feedback loop of conformity.

In simple terms: We think what we think due to others and our own habits.

Key Takeaway

Question why you hold a belief.

Themes

conformity influence habit self‑reinforcement

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • group decision making
  • personal belief formation
  • marketing
  • education

Key Concepts

social psychology cognitive bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you examine the origins of your convictions?
  • How does group pressure shape your opinions?
A Different Perspective

Beliefs may be irrational or outdated despite repetition.

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