Authority Quote by Gautama Buddha
“Believe nothing on the faith of traditions, even though they have been held in honor for many generations and in diverse places. Do not believe a thing because many people speak of it. Do not believe on the faith of the sages of the past. Do not believe what you yourself have imagined, persuading yourself that a God inspires you. Believe nothing on the sole authority of your masters and priests. After examination, believe what you yourself have tested and found to be reasonable, and conform your conduct thereto.”
About This Quote
Question authority and test ideas personally rather than accepting tradition blindly.
In simple terms: Think for yourself, not just follow tradition.
Key Takeaway
Seek evidence before belief.
Themes
critical thinking
tradition
authority
skepticism
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- personal decision making
- ethical debates
- education curricula
Key Concepts
empiricism
philosophy
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- What traditions have you examined critically?
- How do you balance respect for heritage with personal inquiry?
A Different Perspective
Blind faith can provide social cohesion; rejecting all tradition may cause instability.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)