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The only attitude (the only politics--judicial, medical…

“The only attitude (the only politics--judicial, medical, pedagogical and so forth) I would absolutely condemn is one which, directly or indirectly, cuts off the possibility of an essentially interminable questioning, that is, an effective and thus transforming questioning.” quote by Jacques Derrida
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“The only attitude (the only politics--judicial, medical, pedagogical and so forth) I would absolutely condemn is one which, directly or indirectly, cuts off the possibility of an essentially interminable questioning, that is, an effective and thus transforming questioning.”

Jacques Derrida

About This Quote

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

The quote warns against any stance that suppresses endless critical inquiry, seeing questioning as essential for transformation.

In simple terms: Never stop asking deep questions.

Key Takeaway

Protect the right to question.

Themes

critical thinking freedom of thought democracy inquiry

Mood

reflective defiant

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • legal reform
  • medical ethics
  • education policy

Key Concepts

deconstruction epistemic openness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can institutions foster perpetual questioning?
  • What risks arise when questioning is limited?
A Different Perspective

Silencing questioning can lead to dogma and stagnation.

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