Darwin-s-doubts Quote by Charles Darwin
““But then with me the horrid doubt always arises whether the convictions of man's mind, which has been developed from the mind of the lower animals, are of any value or at all trustworthy. Would any one trust in the convictions of a monkey's mind, if there are any convictions in such a mind? [To William Graham 3 July 1881]””
About This Quote
Source Letter to William Graham, 3 July 1881
Questions the reliability of human reasoning by comparing it to animal cognition, highlighting epistemic doubt.
In simple terms: Human reasoning may be unreliable like animal thought.
Critically assess your own beliefs.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- critical thinking
- science education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do we trust our own reasoning?
- How can we improve intellectual reliability?
May underestimate human rational progress.