Crooked things may be as stiff and unflexible as streight…
“Crooked things may be as stiff and unflexible as streight: and Men may be as positive and peremptory in Error as in Truth.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People can cling to false beliefs as rigidly as they hold true ones, showing human stubbornness.
In simple terms: People can be stubborn about both truth and error.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question rigid convictions.
Themes
stubbornness
truth
error
human nature
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- political debate
- personal relationships
- education
- media consumption
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
confirmation bias
dogmatism
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you test your own convictions?
- What makes you cling to a belief despite contrary evidence?
A Different Perspective
Rigid beliefs may blind individuals to evidence.