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Subjective reason ... is inclined to abandon the fight…

“Subjective reason ... is inclined to abandon the fight with religion by setting up two different brackets, one for science and philosophy, and one for institutionalized mythology, thus recognizing both of them. For the philosophy of objective reason there is no such way out. Since it hold to the…” quote by Max Horkheimer
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“Subjective reason ... is inclined to abandon the fight with religion by setting up two different brackets, one for science and philosophy, and one for institutionalized mythology, thus recognizing both of them. For the philosophy of objective reason there is no such way out. Since it hold to the concept of objective truth, it must take a positive or a negative stand with regard to the content of established religion.”

Max Horkheimer

About This Quote

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

The passage argues that subjective reason can compartmentalize science and religion, but objective reason, tied to truth, must take a definitive stance toward religion.

In simple terms: Subjective reason separates science and religion; objective reason must choose a side.

Key Takeaway

Understand the tension between subjective flexibility and objective truth claims.

Themes

philosophy truth religion reason

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical theoretical

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • public policy
  • interfaith dialogue
  • science education

Key Concepts

epistemology dialectics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can true objectivity exist in religious discourse?
  • How does compartmentalization affect societal cohesion?
A Different Perspective

Objective reason may be constrained by cultural biases.

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