All my moral and intellectual being is penetrated by an…
““All my moral and intellectual being is penetrated by an invincible conviction that whatever falls under the dominion of our senses must be in nature and, however exceptional, cannot differ in its essence from all the other effects of the visible and tangible world of which we are a self-conscious part. The world of the living contains enough marvels and mysteries as it is—marvels and mysteries acting upon our emotions and intelligence in ways so inexplicable that it would almost justify the conception of life as an enchanted state. No, I am too firm in my consciousness of the marvelous to be ever fascinated by the mere supernatural which (take it any way you like) is but a manufactured article, the fabrication of minds insensitive to the intimate delicacies of our relation to the dead and to the living, in their countless multitudes; a desecration of our tenderest memories; an outrage on our dignity.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that sensory experience defines reality, rejecting supernatural explanations as human constructs that disrespect life and memory.
In simple terms: Reality is defined by what we can sense; the supernatural is a human invention.
Key Takeaway
Trust empirical evidence over mystical speculation.
Themes
reality
empiricism
skepticism
humanism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- philosophical debate
- education
- ethical decision-making
- cultural analysis
Key Concepts
ontology
epistemology
metaphysics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate between useful myth and harmful delusion?
- Can intuition coexist with empirical reasoning?
A Different Perspective
Supernatural beliefs can provide comfort and meaning for many.