Skip to content

Man is not logical and his intellectual history is a…

“Man is not logical and his intellectual history is a record of mental reserves and compromises. He hangs on to what he can in his old beliefs even when he is compelled to surrender their logical basis.” quote by John Dewey
Download Open image
“Man is not logical and his intellectual history is a record of mental reserves and compromises. He hangs on to what he can in his old beliefs even when he is compelled to surrender their logical basis.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

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

Human reasoning is often compromised by clinging to outdated beliefs despite logical challenges.

In simple terms: People hold onto old beliefs even when illogical.

Key Takeaway

Question entrenched assumptions.

Themes

critical thinking philosophy psychology

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • policy debates
  • personal decision‑making

Key Concepts

cognitive bias intellectual humility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What beliefs do you resist updating?
  • How can you foster openness to new ideas?
A Different Perspective

Changing deep‑seated beliefs can cause emotional distress.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Dewey

Explore all 486 John Dewey quotes

More History quotes

Browse all 27,263 History quotes