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Upon the great questions of origin, of destiny, of…

“Upon the great questions of origin, of destiny, of immortality, of . . . other worlds, every honest man must say, 'I do not know.' Upon these questions, this is the creed of intelligence.” quote by Robert Green Ingersoll
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“Upon the great questions of origin, of destiny, of immortality, of . . . other worlds, every honest man must say, 'I do not know.' Upon these questions, this is the creed of intelligence.”

Robert Green Ingersoll

About This Quote

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

One must admit uncertainty about fundamental questions, embracing humility as a sign of intelligence.

In simple terms: Admit not knowing big questions.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty as intellectual honesty.

Themes

humility knowledge philosophy inquiry intelligence

Mood

contemplative inquisitive

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal reflection
  • scientific research
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

epistemic humility skepticism critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does uncertainty teach you?
  • How can doubt drive learning?
A Different Perspective

Some view uncertainty as weakness.

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