Attention Quote by Charles Sanders Peirce
“Some think to avoid the influence of metaphysical errors, by paying no attention to metaphysics; but experience shows that these men beyond all others are held in an iron vice of metaphysical theory, because by theories that they have never called in question.”
About This Quote
Avoiding metaphysics by ignoring it leads to unexamined theories that dominate thought.
In simple terms: Ignoring metaphysics still lets it dominate.
Question hidden assumptions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy making
- personal belief systems
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What unexamined theories shape your views?
- How can you safely critique deep assumptions?
Challenging metaphysics can be uncomfortable.