It is not rational to assume, without evidence, that…
“It is not rational to assume, without evidence, that rationality can disclose everything about the world, just because it can disclose some things. Our intuition in favour of rationality, where we are inclined to use it, is just that - an intuition. Reason is founded in intuition and ends in intuition, like a pair of massive bookends.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Reason relies on intuition both to start and to finish, so assuming it can explain everything without evidence is unjustified.
In simple terms: Reason and intuition are intertwined, so rationality has limits.
Key Takeaway
Recognize intuition’s role in reasoning.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal decision making
- scientific inquiry
Key Concepts
intuition
rationality
limits of knowledge
Questions to Reflect On
- How does intuition shape your conclusions?
- When should you trust evidence over intuition?
A Different Perspective
Rationality can still be useful despite its limits.