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Coincidence Quote by Charles Caleb Colton

“Dreams ought to produce no conviction whatever on philosophical minds. If we consider how many dreams are dreamt every night, and how many events occur every day, we shall no longer wonder at those accidental coincidences which ignorance mistakes for verifications.” quote by Charles Caleb Colton
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“Dreams ought to produce no conviction whatever on philosophical minds. If we consider how many dreams are dreamt every night, and how many events occur every day, we shall no longer wonder at those accidental coincidences which ignorance mistakes for verifications.”

Charles Caleb Colton

About This Quote

Source Essay: Thoughts on Philosophy, 1820

The quote warns that dreams are unreliable evidence and should not be taken as proof for philosophical arguments.

In simple terms: Dreams are not reliable proof.

Key Takeaway

Do not base beliefs on dreams.

Themes

skepticism epistemology coincidence

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

philosophical skeptical

When to use this quote

  • daily decision making
  • scientific research
  • critical thinking
  • personal belief formation

Key Concepts

empiricism confirmation bias randomness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between meaningful insight and random mental imagery?
  • Can you recall a time a dream misled you?
A Different Perspective

Dreams can be vivid and persuasive, leading people to overvalue them.

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