Acknowledge Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“It is remarkable that almost all speakers and writers feel it to be incumbent on them, sooner or later, to prove or acknowledge the personality of God. Some Earl of Bridgewater, thinking it better late than never, has provided for it in his will. It is a sad mistake.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Walden, Henry David Thoreau, 1854
Thoreau critiques the habit of people claiming divine authority to legitimize their words, seeing it as a misguided attempt to gain credibility.
In simple terms: People often invoke God to support their ideas, which Thoreau sees as a mistake.
Key Takeaway
Question the need to appeal to a deity for validation.
Themes
religion
authority
credibility
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
skeptical
When to use this quote
- public speaking
- writing
- political discourse
- personal belief
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
theism
ego
rhetoric
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we feel compelled to cite a higher power?
- What alternatives exist for establishing credibility?
A Different Perspective
Appealing to God can alienate secular audiences and may mask personal responsibility.
