Academic Quote by Desiderius Erasmus
“Human affairs are so obscure and various that nothing can be clearly known. This was the sound conclusion of the Academic sceptics, who were the least surly of philosophers.”
About This Quote
Human affairs are complex and ambiguous, making certainty impossible; even skeptical philosophers admit the limits of knowledge.
In simple terms: Human affairs are too complex for absolute certainty.
Accept uncertainty in knowledge.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- ethical debates
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What can we do to navigate ambiguity?
- Is some certainty ever achievable?
The statement may dismiss the value of striving for clearer understanding.