Knowledge Quote by Bertrand Russell
““There is a widespread philosophical tendency towards the view which tells us that Man is the measure of all things, that truth is man-made, that space and time and the world of universals are properties of the mind, and that, if there be anything not created by the mind, it is unknowable and of no account for us. This view, if our previous discussions were correct, is untrue; but in addition to being untrue, it has the effect of robbing philosophic contemplation of all that gives it value, since it fetters contemplation to Self. What it calls knowledge is not a union with the not-Self, but a set of prejudices, habits, and desires, making an impenetrable veil between us and the world beyond. The man who finds pleasure in such a theory of knowledge is like a man who never leaves the domestic circle for fear his word might not be law.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Limits of Philosophy,” 1905
Human‑centric epistemology limits understanding, turning knowledge into self‑serving bias and blocking true insight into reality beyond the mind.
In simple terms: Man‑centered views distort truth and block deeper knowledge.
Key Takeaway
Seek perspectives beyond personal bias.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
subjectivity
knowledge
reality
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal reflection
- spiritual practice
- scientific inquiry
Key Concepts
idealism
relativism
objectivity
self‑transcendence
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you recognize when your worldview limits you?
- How might you access knowledge beyond personal bias?
A Different Perspective
Such theories can become self‑reinforcing, ignoring external evidence.
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![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
![“I never knew any man who had once tasted the sweetness of experimental knowledge, that ever afterward fasted after ye Vapour garlick and onions of phantasmatical seeming philosophy." [William Petty]” quote by Carl Zimmer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e5a/carl-zimmer-16331_knowledge_i-never-knew-any-man-who-had-once-tasted_1770.jpg)
