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Better risk loss of truth than chance of error--that is…

“Better risk loss of truth than chance of error--that is your faith-vetoer's exact position. He is actively playing his stake as much as the believer is; he is backing the field against the religious hypothesis, just as the believer is backing the religious hypothesis against the field.” quote by William James
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“Better risk loss of truth than chance of error--that is your faith-vetoer's exact position. He is actively playing his stake as much as the believer is; he is backing the field against the religious hypothesis, just as the believer is backing the religious hypothesis against the field.”

William James

About This Quote

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

Choosing to reject truth for certainty is a flawed stance; both skeptics and believers stake claims, but the former challenges the latter’s assumptions.

In simple terms: Reject truth for certainty is risky.

Key Takeaway

Question certainty, value evidence.

Themes

skepticism faith epistemology

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • Debates
  • scientific inquiry
  • personal decisions
  • policy making

Key Concepts

Belief systems critical thinking risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you weigh belief against evidence?
  • When is faith justified?
A Different Perspective

Faith can provide comfort despite uncertainty; balance is needed.

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