Capable Quote by H. L. Mencken
“No democratic delusion is more fatuous than that which holds that all men are capable of reason, and hence susceptible to conversion by evidence. If religions depended upon evidence for their prolongation, then all of them would collapse.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The American Language, 1912
Mencken argues that assuming all humans are rational and can be convinced by evidence is naive; religion persists because it relies on faith, not proof.
In simple terms: Rationality alone can’t change beliefs; faith often overrides evidence.
Key Takeaway
Question the limits of evidence in changing deep‑seated beliefs.
Themes
philosophy
religion
skepticism
human nature
Mood
skeptical
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
aphilosophical
analytical
critical.
When to use this quote
- debates
- public discourse
- education
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
epistemology
faith vs reason
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- Can evidence ever truly change a faith‑based belief?
- What role do emotions play in belief formation?
A Different Perspective
Evidence alone may not persuade; cultural and emotional factors also shape belief.
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