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Men educated in [the critical habit of thought]are slow to…

“Men educated in [the critical habit of thought]are slow to believe. They can hold things as possible or probable in all degrees, without certainty and without pain.” quote by William Graham Sumner
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“Men educated in [the critical habit of thought]are slow to believe. They can hold things as possible or probable in all degrees, without certainty and without pain.”

William Graham Sumner

About This Quote

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

Critical thinkers entertain possibilities without demanding certainty, allowing open‑mindedness and tolerance of ambiguity.

In simple terms: Critical thinkers accept uncertainty and possibilities.

Key Takeaway

Embrace uncertainty for broader understanding.

Themes

critical thinking open‑mindedness uncertainty

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • Academic research
  • creative brainstorming
  • decision making

Key Concepts

Epistemology philosophy of mind

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance doubt and action?
  • What role does certainty play in your decisions?
A Different Perspective

Too much doubt can lead to indecision.

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