Skip to content

To argue with a man who has renounced the use and…

“To argue with a man who has renounced the use and authority of reason, and whose philosophy consists in holding humanity in contempt, is like administering medicine to the dead, or endeavoring to convert an atheist by scripture.” quote by Thomas Paine
Download Open image
“To argue with a man who has renounced the use and authority of reason, and whose philosophy consists in holding humanity in contempt, is like administering medicine to the dead, or endeavoring to convert an atheist by scripture.”

Thomas Paine

About This Quote

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

Reason is dismissed and humanity devalued, making attempts to persuade futile like treating the dead.

In simple terms: Reason dismissed, persuasion futile.

Key Takeaway

Accept limits of rational discourse.

Themes

reason humanity persuasion

Mood

cynical reflective

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • ethical discussions
  • education
  • therapy

Key Concepts

skepticism nihilism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you ever change a deeply entrenched belief?
  • When is it wiser to disengage?
A Different Perspective

Even the dead cannot be healed; some minds resist change.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Thomas Paine

Explore all 772 Thomas Paine quotes

More Argue quotes

Browse all 642 Argue quotes