Common Quote by David Hume
“There is, indeed a more mitigated scepticism or academical philosophy, which may be both durable and useful, and which may, in part, be the result of this Pyrrhonism, or excessive scepticism, when its undistinguished doubts are corrected by common sense and reflection.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
A balanced, moderate skepticism that blends doubt with common sense can be both lasting and practical.
In simple terms: Moderate doubt plus common sense is useful.
Combine healthy questioning with practical reasoning.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal decision making
- scientific inquiry
- everyday problem solving
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you know when doubt becomes unproductive?
- When does common sense override skepticism?
Over‑reliance on doubt may paralyze action.