Burden Quote by Elbert Hubbard
“No man should dogmatize except on the subject of theology. Here he can take his stand, and by throwing the burden of proof on the opposition, he is invincible. We have to die to find out whether he is right.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Philosophy of the Unconscious", 1905
Dogmatizing theology is acceptable, but shifting proof burden makes arguments invincible, urging humility.
In simple terms: Only theology can be dogmatic; shifting proof burden blocks debate.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions and demand evidence.
Themes
theology
argumentation
intellectual humility
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- debates
- academic writing
- public discourse
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- When do you accept uncertainty?
- How can you foster open dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Proof-shifting can stall progress.
![“The threat [of the U.S. bills SOPA and PIPA] is the inversion of the burden of proof, where we suddenly are all treated like thieves at every moment we're given the freedom to create, to produce or to share.” quote by Clay Shirky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/572/clay-shirky-3364_bills_the-threat-of-the-u-s-bills-sopa-and-pip_439701.jpg)
