Men follow their sentiments and their self-interest, but…
“Men follow their sentiments and their self-interest, but it pleases them to imagine that they follow reason. And so they look for, and always find, some theory which, a posteriori, makes their actions appear to be logical. If that theory could be demolished scientifically, the only result would be that another theory would be substituted for the first one, and for the same purpose.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People claim rationality but often justify actions with convenient theories; if one theory falls, another replaces it for the same purpose.
In simple terms: People rationalize actions with theories that fit their interests.
Key Takeaway
Question your own justifications.
Themes
reasoning
self‑interest
bias
justification
Mood
critical
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- decision making
- political debate
- personal reflection
- ethical analysis
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
rationalization
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you choose theories that suit you?
- How to recognize self‑serving rationalizations?
A Different Perspective
The new theory may still be flawed.