A rational reaction against the irrational excesses and…
“A rational reaction against the irrational excesses and vagaries of scepticism may, I admit, readily degenerate into the rival folly of credulity. To be engaged in opposing wrong affords, under the conditions of our mental constitution, but a slender guarantee for being right .”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Rationalism can slip into credulity; opposing wrong offers only a thin guarantee of being right.
In simple terms: Reason can become blind faith; opposing error isn’t a solid proof.
Key Takeaway
Balance skepticism with open-minded inquiry.
Themes
philosophy
critical thinking
skepticism
credulity
reason
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- debating ideas
- evaluating evidence
- academic discourse
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
epistemology
cognitive bias
intellectual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- When does skepticism hinder progress?
- How can one avoid replacing one extreme with another?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on doubt may paralyze decision‑making.