The various systems of doctrine that have held dominion…
“The various systems of doctrine that have held dominion over man have been demonstrated to be true beyond all question by rationalists of such power-to name only a few-as Aquinas and Calvin and Hegel and Marx. Guided by these master hands the intellect has shown itself more deadly than cholera or bubonic plague and far more cruel. The incompatibility with one another of all the great systems of doctrine might surely be have expected to provoke some curiosity about their nature.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Competing philosophical systems appear powerful but often conflict, revealing limits of intellectual dominance.
In simple terms: Great doctrines clash despite intellectual power.
Key Takeaway
Question the supremacy of any single doctrine.
Themes
philosophy
conflict
intellectual history
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
historical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy formation
- education curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Dialectics
epistemology
historical critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives the rivalry of doctrines?
- Can multiple systems coexist peacefully?
A Different Perspective
Dogmatic certainty can blind to contradictions.