Car accident Quote by John Jeremiah Sullivan
““While I paid, they exchanged some pieties on how everyone has his or her own beliefs, et cetera. Then the woman said, “It’s just like, ten people see a car accident, every single one is gonna tell the police something different” (a vivid way, I thought, of localizing the story about the blind men feeling an elephant). “Tell me which one of ’em gets out to help,” the man said, “that’s the one whose religion I’ll listen to.””
About This Quote
The anecdote compares differing eyewitness accounts to religious authority, suggesting one follows the religion that offers help.
In simple terms: People trust the religion that aids them.
Key Takeaway
Seek help beyond doctrine.
Themes
faith
truth
perception
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- ethical discussion
Key Concepts
subjectivity
social proof
ethical choice
Questions to Reflect On
- What determines religious credibility?
- How do we evaluate truth?
A Different Perspective
It may reduce complex faith to utility.
