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Certain Quote by Bertrand Russell

“When one admits that nothing is certain one must, I think, also add that some things are more nearly certain than others” quote by Bertrand Russell
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“When one admits that nothing is certain one must, I think, also add that some things are more nearly certain than others”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Problems of Philosophy, 1912

Acknowledging uncertainty, we can still rank beliefs by relative confidence, accepting that some propositions are more likely true than others.

In simple terms: Not all unknowns are equal; some are more reliable.

Key Takeaway

Assess and prioritize beliefs by their likelihood.

Themes

knowledge certainty logic epistemology

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • scientific research
  • personal beliefs

Key Concepts

probability critical thinking skepticism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria do you use to gauge certainty?
  • How do you handle conflicting probabilities?
A Different Perspective

certainty is never absolute, leading to potential error.

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