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Banality Quote by Charles A. Beard

“Let us put aside resolutely that great fright, tenderly and without malice, daring to be wrong in something important rather than right in some meticulous banality, fearing no evil while the mind is free to search, imagine, and conclude, inviting our countrymen to try other instruments than…” quote by Charles A. Beard
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“Let us put aside resolutely that great fright, tenderly and without malice, daring to be wrong in something important rather than right in some meticulous banality, fearing no evil while the mind is free to search, imagine, and conclude, inviting our countrymen to try other instruments than coercion and suppression in the effort to meet destiny with triumph, genially suspecting that no creed yet calendared in the annals of politics mirrors the doomful possibilities of infinity.”

Charles A. Beard

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Future of Democracy, Charles A. Beard, 1935

We should boldly embrace uncertainty and creativity, rejecting rigid conformity, to pursue higher ideals freely.

In simple terms: Embrace uncertainty, reject banality, pursue higher ideals.

Key Takeaway

Dare to be wrong in important matters.

Themes

creativity freedom idealism

Mood

hopeful challenging

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political reform
  • artistic innovation
  • scientific research

Key Concepts

risk‑taking intellectual curiosity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What important risks will you take?
  • How can you balance freedom with responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Risk can lead to failure.

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