Controlling Quote by C.S. Lewis
““If there was a controlling power outside the universe, it could not show itself to us as one of the facts inside the universe -no more than the architect of a house could actually be a wall or staircase or fireplace in that house. The only way in which we could expect it to show itself would be inside us as an influence or a command trying to get us to behave in a certain way. And that's just what we do find inside us.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis, 1940
If a divine power exists, it cannot be directly observed as a physical object within the universe; its influence would be internal, shaping our thoughts and actions.
In simple terms: God would act inside us, not appear as a thing.
Key Takeaway
Look for inner moral prompts.
Themes
theology
philosophy
human nature
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical dilemmas
- spiritual reflection
Key Concepts
Divine hiddenness
internal moral compass
free will
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you feel an inner drive toward certain values?
- How might we distinguish internal moral intuition from external influence?
A Different Perspective
Assumes a monotheistic framework, which may not apply universally.
