Animal Quote by Ernest Sosa
“In my view there is a level of human knowledge that involves just getting it right aptly. This "animal" epistemic level is an inferior level in just the way of Diana's long shot in the dark while drunk. That shot is inferior in a certain respect if too poorly selected as a hunter's archery shot, even if not quite as poorly selected as would be a shot aimed at the moon. Even if Diana's too risky shot turns out to be apt by attaining success through sublime archery dexterity, it is still inferior in the particular respect of being so risky and hence so poorly selected.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Epistemology of Knowledge, Ernest Sosa, 1991
The quote argues that some ways of knowing are less reliable because they rely on chance or risky judgment rather than careful selection.
In simple terms: Risky, chance‑based knowledge is inferior to careful, well‑chosen understanding.
Key Takeaway
Prefer reliable, well‑chosen methods over risky shortcuts.
Themes
knowledge
reliability
risk
epistemology
Mood
cautious
analytical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
analytical
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- medical diagnosis
- financial investing
- legal reasoning
Key Concepts
epistemic justification
probability
decision theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance risk and reliability in decision‑making?
- When is a risky approach justified?
A Different Perspective
Risky methods can sometimes succeed, but they remain less trustworthy overall.
