Skip to content

It is curious to observe the triumph of slight incidents…

“It is curious to observe the triumph of slight incidents over the mind; and what incredible weight they have in forming and governing our opinions, both of men and things, that trifles light as air shall waft a belief into the soul, and plant it so immovable within it, that Euclid's…” quote by Laurence Sterne
Download Open image
“It is curious to observe the triumph of slight incidents over the mind; and what incredible weight they have in forming and governing our opinions, both of men and things, that trifles light as air shall waft a belief into the soul, and plant it so immovable within it, that Euclid's demonstrations, could they be brought to batter it in breach, should not all have power to overthrow it!”

Laurence Sterne

About This Quote

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

Minor incidents heavily influence opinions, outweighing logical arguments like Euclid's proofs.

In simple terms: Small events shape beliefs strongly.

Key Takeaway

Question the weight of trivial influences.

Themes

perception logic influence

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical cognitive

When to use this quote

  • media consumption
  • personal decisions
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

cognitive bias philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do small events affect your views?
  • Can logic overcome emotional bias?
A Different Perspective

Logical arguments still matter in rational discourse.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Laurence Sterne

Explore all 244 Laurence Sterne quotes

More Air quotes

Browse all 6,278 Air quotes