Skip to content

Determinism Quote by G.K. Chesterton

“The materialist thinks me a slave because I am not allowed to believe in determinism. I think [the materialist] a slave because he is not allowed to believe in fairies.” quote by G.K. Chesterton
Download Open image
““The materialist thinks me a slave because I am not allowed to believe in determinism. I think [the materialist] a slave because he is not allowed to believe in fairies.””

G.K. Chesterton

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Ethics of Elfland", 1905

Contrasts materialism with imagination, arguing both limit belief in different ways.

In simple terms: Materialism and imagination both restrict belief.

Key Takeaway

Balance rational thought with imagination.

Themes

philosophy imagination materialism

Mood

thoughtful playful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • creative writing
  • personal reflection
  • teaching

Key Concepts

skepticism freedom of thought

Questions to Reflect On

  • What beliefs do you consider 'unreasonable'?
  • How can imagination enrich scientific inquiry?
A Different Perspective

Imagination may be dismissed as irrational.

3.8 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by G.K. Chesterton

Explore all 853 G.K. Chesterton quotes

More Determinism quotes

Browse all 295 Determinism quotes