We need not deplore the renunciation of historical truth…
““We need not deplore the renunciation of historical truth when we put forward rational grounds for the precepts of civilization. The truths contained in religious doctrines are after all so distorted and systematically disguised that the mass of humanity cannot recognize them as truth. The case is similar to what happens when we tell a child that new-born babies are brought by the stork. Here, too, we are telling the truth in symbolic clothing, for we know what the large bird signifies . But the child does not know it. He hears only the distorted part of what we say, and feels that he has been deceived; and we know how often his distrust of the grown-ups and his refractoriness actually take their start from this impression. We have become convinced that it is better to avoid such symbolic disguisings of the truth in what we tell children and not to withhold from them a knowledge of the true state of affairs commensurate with their intellectual level.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Symbolic truths simplify complex ideas but can mislead if taken literally.
In simple terms: Metaphors help understanding but may cause confusion.
Key Takeaway
Use symbols wisely, clarify meanings.
Themes
symbolism
truth
communication
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- teaching children
- public speaking
- media messaging
Key Concepts
philosophy
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you misinterpreted a metaphor?
- How can you ensure clarity in explanations?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on symbols can obscure reality.