Skip to content

There are trivial truths and the great truths. The…

“There are trivial truths and the great truths. The opposite of a trivial truth is plainly false. The opposite of a great truth is also true.” quote by Niels Bohr
Download Open image
“There are trivial truths and the great truths. The opposite of a trivial truth is plainly false. The opposite of a great truth is also true.”

Niels Bohr

About This Quote

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

Trivial truths are simple and their opposites are false; great truths are profound and their opposites can also be true, highlighting nuance in knowledge.

In simple terms: Simple truths have false opposites; deep truths may have true opposites.

Key Takeaway

Recognize complexity in what seems obvious.

Themes

philosophy logic epistemology

Mood

thoughtful curious

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • scientific research
  • ethical debates
  • education
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

paradox relativism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between trivial and great truths?
  • When might a great truth’s opposite also hold value?
A Different Perspective

Great truths can be misinterpreted if taken too literally.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Niels Bohr

Explore all 108 Niels Bohr quotes

More Truth quotes

Browse all 45,081 Truth quotes