One of the great weaknesses of the progressive, as…
“One of the great weaknesses of the progressive, as distinct from the religious, mind, is that it has no awareness of truth as such; only of truth in terms of enlightened expediency. The contrast is well exemplified in two exact contemporaries - Simone Weil and Simone de Beauvoir; both highly intelligent and earnestly disposed. In all the fearful moral dilemmas of our time, Simone Weil never once went astray, whereas Simone de Beauvoir, with I am sure the best of intentions, has found herself aligned with apologists for some of the most monstrous barbarities and falsehoods of history.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Progressive thinking often treats truth as a tool for goals, ignoring absolute truth, unlike some religious perspectives.
In simple terms: Progressives may sacrifice truth for expediency.
Key Takeaway
Balance pragmatic aims with a commitment to objective truth.
Themes
truth
progressivism
ethics
philosophy
politics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- academic research
- public debate
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
instrumental rationality
moral absolutism
intellectual honesty
Questions to Reflect On
- What truths are we willing to compromise for progress?
- How can we integrate absolute truth into pragmatic actions?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on expediency can erode moral foundations.