Absurdities Quote by David Hume
“When any opinion leads us into absurdities, 'tis certainly false; but 'tis not certain an opinion is false, because 'tis of dangerous consequence.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding, 1748
An opinion that leads to irrational conclusions is likely false, yet falsehood isn’t always evident or dangerous.
In simple terms: False ideas cause absurdity, but not all false ideas are obvious.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions that produce absurd results.
Themes
philosophy
logic
critical thinking
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- debates
- academic writing
- everyday decision making
Key Concepts
epistemology
rationality
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you test an opinion for absurdity?
- When might a false belief be harmless?
A Different Perspective
Some false opinions are subtle and hard to detect.
