Beliefs Quote by Christopher Paolini
““We only give credence to that which we can prove exists. Since we cannot find evidence that gods, miracles, and other supernatural things are real, we do not trouble ourselves about them. If that were to change, if Helzvog were to reveal himself to us, then we would accept the new information and revise our position." "It seems a cold world without something . . . more." "On the contrary," said Oromis, "it is a better world. A place where we are responsible for our own actions, where we can be kind to one another because we want to and because it is the right thing to do, instead of being frightened into behaving by the threat of divine punishment. I won't tell you what to believe, Eragon. It is far better to be taught to think critically and then be allowed to make your own decisions than to have someone else's notions thrust upon you. You asked after our religion, and I have answered you true. Make of it what you will.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Eragon, Inheritance Cycle, 2002
The quote argues that belief should be based on evidence, and that moral behavior can arise from personal responsibility rather than fear of divine punishment.
In simple terms: Believe on evidence; act responsibly.
Base beliefs on proof, act ethically by choice.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- ethical education
- philosophical debate
- secular societies
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance evidence with intuition?
- What guides moral choices without divine authority?
Evidence alone may not capture all aspects of human experience.