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Justice Quote by C.S. Lewis

“If my duty to my parents is a superstition, then so is my duty to posterity. If justice is a superstition, then so is my duty to my country or my race. If the pursuit of scientific knowledge is a real value, then so is conjugal fidelity. The rebellion of new ideologies against the Tao is a…” quote by C.S. Lewis
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““If my duty to my parents is a superstition, then so is my duty to posterity. If justice is a superstition, then so is my duty to my country or my race. If the pursuit of scientific knowledge is a real value, then so is conjugal fidelity. The rebellion of new ideologies against the Tao is a rebellion of the branches against the tree: if the rebels could succeed they would find that they had destroyed themselves.””

C.S. Lewis

About This Quote

The passage argues that duties to family, nation, and truth are not superstitions but essential moral obligations, and that rejecting foundational principles leads to self‑destruction.

In simple terms: Duties are real, not superstitions.

Key Takeaway

Rejecting core values erodes self.

Themes

duty morality tradition identity consequence

Mood

reflective serious inquisitive

Type

philosophical moral didactic

When to use this quote

  • making personal life decisions
  • debating national policy
  • teaching ethics
  • evaluating scientific pursuits

Key Concepts

ethical obligation cultural continuity philosophical realism

Practical Applications

  • philosophical essays
  • civic education

Questions to Reflect On

  • What duties do you consider non‑negotiable?
  • How do you balance personal belief with societal obligations?
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