Accepting Quote by C. S. Lewis
“It would be impossible to accept naturalism itself if we really and consistently believed naturalism. For naturalism is a system of thought. But for naturalism all thoughts are mere events with irrational causes. It is, to me at any rate, impossible to regard the thoughts which make up naturalism in that way and, at the same time, regard them as a real insight into external reality...If it is true, then we can know no truths. It cuts its own throat.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Problem of Naturalism, C. S. Lewis, 1949
Naturalism claims all thoughts are events, but this undermines truth, making the view self‑contradictory.
In simple terms: Naturalism denies truth, leading to paradox.
Question assumptions about reality and truth.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal belief
- scientific inquiry
- ethical reasoning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can we find truth without metaphysics?
- What alternatives address naturalism’s limits?
Naturalism may still hold pragmatic value for some.