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Belief Quote by Bertrand Russell

“The fact that a belief has a good moral effect upon a man is no evidence whatsoever in favor of its truth.” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“The fact that a belief has a good moral effect upon a man is no evidence whatsoever in favor of its truth.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Problems of Philosophy", 1912

A belief's moral benefit doesn't prove its factual truth.

In simple terms: Good deeds don't confirm a belief's accuracy.

Key Takeaway

Question truth beyond moral outcomes.

Themes

philosophy ethics truth

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • religious debate
  • scientific inquiry
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

epistemology morality belief systems

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a harmful belief be morally good?
  • How to evaluate belief truth?
A Different Perspective

Moral usefulness can mask falsehoods.

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