Philosophical Quote by Iris Murdoch
““If even a dog's tooth is truly worshipped it glows with light. The venerated object is endowed with power, that is the simple sense of the ontological proof. And if there is art enough a lie can enlighten us as well as the truth. What is the truth anyway, that truth? As we know ourselves we are fake objects, fakes, bundles of illusions. Can you determine exactly what you felt or thought or did?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Sea, the Sea by Iris Murdoch, 1978
Worshipping false idols gives them power; art can illuminate truth, but truth itself is elusive and self‑deception pervades perception.
In simple terms: Idols gain power when revered; art can reveal truth; truth is uncertain.
Key Takeaway
Question what you truly believe and why.
Themes
philosophy
illusion
art
truth
self‑knowledge
Mood
contemplative
skeptical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- creative writing
- critical analysis
Key Concepts
ontology
epistemology
aesthetics
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs have you accepted without scrutiny?
- How does art challenge your perception of truth?
A Different Perspective
Truth can be manipulated by belief, limiting objective understanding.
