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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…” quote by Charles Darwin
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““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]””

Charles Darwin

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.

Key Takeaway

Critically assess your own beliefs.

Themes

philosophy science epistemology

Mood

skeptical inquisitive

Type

philosophical scientific

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • critical thinking
  • science education

Key Concepts

cognitive bias evolutionary psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do we trust our own reasoning?
  • How can we improve intellectual reliability?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate human rational progress.

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