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There is nothing disastrous in the temporary nature of our…

“There is nothing disastrous in the temporary nature of our ideas. They are always that. But there may very easily be a train of evil in the self-deception which regards them as final. I think God will forgive us our skepticism sooner than our Inquisitions.” quote by Walter Lippmann
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“There is nothing disastrous in the temporary nature of our ideas. They are always that. But there may very easily be a train of evil in the self-deception which regards them as final. I think God will forgive us our skepticism sooner than our Inquisitions.”

Walter Lippmann

About This Quote

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

Ideas are temporary and subject to change; treating them as final leads to self‑deception, but skepticism is forgivable.

In simple terms: Ideas change; avoid treating them as final.

Key Takeaway

Stay open‑minded and question assumptions.

Themes

philosophy skepticism humility

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • personal belief systems
  • policy making

Key Concepts

epistemology self‑reflection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance doubt with commitment?
  • When is it appropriate to trust an idea?
A Different Perspective

Over‑skepticism may hinder decisive action.

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