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Believe Quote by C. S. Lewis

“There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician…” quote by C. S. Lewis
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“There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.”

C. S. Lewis

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Weight of Glory (1949) – discussion on belief in demons

Humans err by either denying demons’ existence or obsessively fearing them; both attitudes serve demonic interests.

In simple terms: Avoid both denial and obsession with evil.

Key Takeaway

Balance skepticism and awareness.

Themes

faith psychology spirituality criticalthinking balance

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • religious discourse
  • mental health
  • cultural narratives
  • personal belief systems

Key Concepts

belief systems danger of extremes psychic projection

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we discern genuine threats from imagined ones?
  • Can skepticism become denial?
A Different Perspective

Extreme positions can blind us to nuanced truth.

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