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Doubt Quote by G.K. Chesterton

“We are on the road to producing a race of men too mentally modest to believe in the multiplication table. We are in danger of seeing philosophers who doubt the law of gravity as being a mere fancy of their own. Scoffers of old time were too proud to be convinced; but these are too humble to be…” quote by G.K. Chesterton
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““We are on the road to producing a race of men too mentally modest to believe in the multiplication table. We are in danger of seeing philosophers who doubt the law of gravity as being a mere fancy of their own. Scoffers of old time were too proud to be convinced; but these are too humble to be convinced.””

G.K. Chesterton

About This Quote

Source Essay: Orthodoxy, 1908

Modern society may undervalue bold thinking, favoring humility that hinders belief in fundamental truths.

In simple terms: Humility can become a barrier to accepting basic facts.

Key Takeaway

Encourage critical confidence.

Themes

education philosophy confidence

Mood

thoughtful concerned

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • academia
  • public discourse
  • science education

Key Concepts

Intellectual humility skepticism truth perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance humility with confidence?
  • What role does education play in fostering critical belief?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on humility may suppress necessary questioning.

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