Doubt Quote by James Martineau
“The scepticism which men affect towards their higher inspirations is often not an honest doubt, but a guilty negligence, and is a sign of narrow mind and defective wisdom.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: A Critical Examination of Faith, 1845
People often claim doubt about higher ideals, but it may be a convenient excuse for shallow thinking and moral laziness.
In simple terms: Doubt can hide laziness.
Key Takeaway
Challenge yourself to genuine inquiry.
Themes
skepticism
intellectual honesty
wisdom
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- debating religious ideas
- evaluating personal values
- academic discourse
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you question your own beliefs sincerely?
- How can you avoid intellectual complacency?
A Different Perspective
True doubt is hard and uncomfortable.
