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To say that one need art, or politics, that incorporate…

“To say that one need art, or politics, that incorporate ambiguity and contradiction is not to say that one then stops recognizing and condemning things as evil. However, it might stop one being so utterly convinced of the certainty of one's own solutions. There needs to be a strong understanding…” quote by William Kentridge
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“To say that one need art, or politics, that incorporate ambiguity and contradiction is not to say that one then stops recognizing and condemning things as evil. However, it might stop one being so utterly convinced of the certainty of one's own solutions. There needs to be a strong understanding of fallibility and how the very act of certainty or authoritativeness can bring disasters.”

William Kentridge

About This Quote

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

Recognizing ambiguity prevents dogmatic certainty, reminding us that authority can cause harm.

In simple terms: Accepting uncertainty avoids dangerous overconfidence.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility and question your own convictions.

Themes

philosophy politics ethics uncertainty

Mood

thoughtful cautious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • artistic creation
  • education
  • leadership

Key Concepts

fallibility authoritativeness critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance confidence with humility?
  • What safeguards prevent authority from becoming destructive?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on doubt may paralyze decision‑making.

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