Authority Quote by Blaise Pascal
“There are three means of believing--by inspiration, by reason, and by custom. Christianity, which is the only rational institution, does yet admit none for its sons who do not believe by inspiration. Nor does it injure reason or custom, or debar them of their proper force; on the contrary, it directs us to open our minds by the proofs of the former, and to confirm our minds by the authority of the latter.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Treatise: Pensées, 1670
Pascal argues that belief arises from inspiration, reason, and custom; Christianity claims rationality but must accommodate all three sources for true belief.
In simple terms: Belief combines feeling, logic, and habit; Christianity should accept all.
Key Takeaway
Balance emotional, rational, and cultural aspects in faith.
Themes
philosophy
theology
reason
custom
inspiration
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
theological
educational
When to use this quote
- religious education
- interfaith dialogue
- personal belief formation
- cultural analysis
Key Concepts
epistemology
faith
rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions honor both reason and tradition?
- What is the role of personal experience in belief?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on one source may marginalize others.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)