Dogmatism Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
““For it is the fate of every myth to creep by degrees into the narrow limits of some alleged historical reality, and to be treated by some later generation as a unique fact with historical claims...this is the way in which religions are wont to die out: under the stern, intelligent eyes of an orthodox dogmatism, the mythical premises of a religion are systematized as a sum total of historical events; one begins apprehensively to defend the credibility of the myths, while at the same time one opposes any continuation of their vitality and growth; the feeling for myth perishes, and its place is taken by the claim of religion to historical foundations.””
About This Quote
Source Philosophical Essay: “On the Uses and Disadvantages of History for Life”, 1874
Myths gradually become historicized, losing their vitality as they are turned into rigid facts, leading to the decline of religion under dogmatic scrutiny.
In simple terms: Myths turn into rigid histories, losing their life and causing religion to fade.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the living nature of myths and avoid rigid historicization.
Themes
myth
history
religion
dogma
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- religious practice
- cultural policy
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
cultural evolution
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do myths survive when treated as historical facts?
- Can dogmatism coexist with mythic vitality?
A Different Perspective
The view may ignore how myths can adapt and persist despite historicization.
