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The scepticism which men affect towards their higher…

“The scepticism which men affect towards their higher inspirations is often not an honest doubt, but a guilty negligence, and is a sign of narrow mind and defective wisdom.” quote by James Martineau
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“The scepticism which men affect towards their higher inspirations is often not an honest doubt, but a guilty negligence, and is a sign of narrow mind and defective wisdom.”

James Martineau

About This Quote

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

People often claim doubt about higher ideals, but it may be a convenient excuse for shallow thinking and moral laziness.

In simple terms: Doubt can hide laziness.

Key Takeaway

Challenge yourself to genuine inquiry.

Themes

skepticism intellectual honesty wisdom

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • debating religious ideas
  • evaluating personal values
  • academic discourse
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you question your own beliefs sincerely?
  • How can you avoid intellectual complacency?
A Different Perspective

True doubt is hard and uncomfortable.

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