Good thing Quote by Blaise Pascal
““It would therefore be a good thing for us to obey laws and customs because they are laws: to know that there is no right and just law to be brought in, that we know nothing about it and should consequently only follow those already accepted. In this way we should never give them up. But the people are not amenable to this doctrine, and thus, believing that truth can be found and resides in laws and customs, they believe them and take their antiquity as a proof of their truth (and not just of their authority, without truth). Thus they obey them but are liable to revolt as soon as they are shown to be worth nothing, which can happen with all laws if they are looked at from a certain point of view.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Pensées by Blaise Pascal, 1670
Blind obedience to tradition can lead to revolt when its value is questioned; critical thinking is needed to evaluate laws and customs.
In simple terms: Follow laws blindly, and you may rebel when they seem useless.
Key Takeaway
Question authority, seek understanding.
Themes
authority
tradition
rebellion
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
critical
cautious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- legal reform
- education
- civic engagement
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What laws do you accept without questioning?
- How can societies balance tradition and progress?
A Different Perspective
Blind faith may cause instability if not balanced with reason.
