Century Quote by David Bentley Hart
“But, in fact, materialism is among the most problematic of philosophical standpoints, the most impoverished in its explanatory range, and among the most willful and (for want of a better word) magical in its logic, even if it has been in fashion for a couple of centuries or more.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Beauty of the Infinite by David Bentley Hart, 2003
Materialism limits understanding by reducing reality to only physical phenomena, ignoring deeper metaphysical dimensions and often resorting to mystifying explanations.
In simple terms: Materialism narrows explanations to physical only.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of materialist view.
Themes
philosophy
materialism
metaphysics
epistemology
Mood
critical
inquisitive
reflective
Type
philosophical
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal worldview
- ethical reasoning
- scientific research
Key Concepts
reductionism
explanatory scope
magical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How does materialism shape your view of reality?
- Can non‑material explanations coexist with science?
A Different Perspective
Materialism can overlook non‑physical aspects of experience.
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