Belief Quote by Anna Leonowens
“The best doctrine may become the worst, if imperfectly understood, erroneously interpreted, or superstitiously followed.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The English Governess at the Court of the King of Siam by Anna Leonowens, 1870
A doctrine can turn harmful when people misunderstand or misuse it, especially with superstition.
In simple terms: Bad outcomes arise from misinterpretation.
Key Takeaway
Interpret teachings carefully.
Themes
interpretation
misinterpretation
superstition
doctrine
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
advisory
philosophical
When to use this quote
- religious instruction
- legal statutes
- educational curricula
- political ideology
Key Concepts
Hermeneutics
epistemology
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify a doctrine’s true meaning?
- What safeguards prevent superstition?
A Different Perspective
Even well‑intended doctrines can be twisted by bias or power.
