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...it is absurd to try to confine our knowledge and belief…

“...it is absurd to try to confine our knowledge and belief to matters which are conclusively established by sound deductive arguments. The demand for certainty will inevitably be disappointed, leaving skepticism in command of almost every issue.” quote by J. L. Mackie
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“...it is absurd to try to confine our knowledge and belief to matters which are conclusively established by sound deductive arguments. The demand for certainty will inevitably be disappointed, leaving skepticism in command of almost every issue.”

J. L. Mackie

About This Quote

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

Attempting absolute certainty via deduction leads to skepticism.

In simple terms: Certainty via deduction is impossible.

Key Takeaway

Embrace epistemic humility.

Themes

knowledge skepticism certainty

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

philosophical academic

When to use this quote

  • science
  • law
  • daily decision‑making

Key Concepts

philosophy epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we seek absolute certainty?
  • How can we act amid uncertainty?
A Different Perspective

Some truths can be reasonably certain.

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