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Asks Quote by Friedrich August von Hayek

“I can have little patience with those who oppose ... the theory of evolution or what are called "mechanistic" explanations of the phenomena of life because of certain moral consequences which at first seem to follow from these theories, and still less with those who regard it as irrelevant or…” quote by Friedrich August von Hayek
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“I can have little patience with those who oppose ... the theory of evolution or what are called "mechanistic" explanations of the phenomena of life because of certain moral consequences which at first seem to follow from these theories, and still less with those who regard it as irrelevant or impious to ask certain questions at all. By refusing to face the facts , the conservative only weakens his own position.”

Friedrich August von Hayek

About This Quote

Source Book: The Constitution of Liberty, 1960

Hayek argues that dismissing scientific explanations of life on moral grounds weakens conservative arguments and hinders rational discourse.

In simple terms: Rejecting science for moral reasons weakens your stance.

Key Takeaway

Embrace evidence‑based reasoning.

Themes

science morality politics rationalism

Mood

critical analytical skeptical

Type

philosophical political academic

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • educational curricula
  • public discourse
  • ethical deliberations

Key Concepts

philosophy economics epistemology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do moral values intersect with scientific facts?
  • Can one defend a position without confronting evidence?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on morality can ignore empirical truth.

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