Common Quote by David Hume
“Do you come to a philosopher as to a cunning man, to learn something by magic or witchcraft, beyond what can be known by common prudence and discretion?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
The question challenges whether philosophical insight can be obtained through deceitful tricks rather than rational judgment.
In simple terms: Philosophy should rely on reason, not magic.
Key Takeaway
Seek truth through careful reasoning.
Themes
philosophy
reason
knowledge
method
skepticism
Mood
inquisitive
critical
Type
philosophical
inquisitive
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal reflection
- educational lecture
Key Concepts
Epistemology
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- Can true insight be gained without rational analysis?
- What role does prudence play in learning?
A Different Perspective
Relying on superstition undermines reliable understanding.
![“Neither Italian fascism nor German national "socialism" have anything in common with such a [Soviet socialistic] society, primarily because private ownership of factories, plants, lands, banks, means of transportation, etc., remain untouched there, and, therefore, capitalism in Germany and Italy…” quote by Joseph Stalin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/411/joseph-stalin-1734_capitalism_neither-italian-fascism-nor-german-natio_1430.jpg)
