Indifference Quote by Fulton J. Sheen
““there has sprung up a disturbing indifference to truth, and a tendency to regard the useful as the true, and the impractical as the false. The man who can make up his mind when proofs are presented to him is looked upon as a bigot, and the man who ignores proofs and the search for truth is looked upon as broadminded and tolerant.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Moral Philosophy and Truth, 1950s
He warns that society increasingly values practicality over truth, labeling those who demand evidence as bigots while praising those who ignore proof as tolerant.
In simple terms: People prefer useful ideas over factual truth, calling skeptics bigots and open‑mindedness tolerant.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize truth and evidence over mere usefulness.
Themes
philosophy
ethics
truth
society
intellectual honesty
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
cautionary
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic debates
- media commentary
- public lectures
- online forums
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
epistemology
pragmatism
bigotry
tolerance
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- What role should evidence play in everyday decisions?
- Can openness to ideas coexist with rigorous proof?
A Different Perspective
The stance may dismiss genuine pragmatic considerations and the value of diverse perspectives.
