Assent Quote by John Locke
“It is therefore worthwhile, to search out the bounds between opinion and knowledge; and examine by what measures, in things, whereof we have no certain knowledge, we ought to regulate our assent, and moderate our persuasions.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, 1689
We should distinguish opinion from knowledge and limit belief where certainty lacks, moderating persuasion accordingly.
In simple terms: Separate belief from fact, limit confidence when unsure.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions, curb overconfidence.
Themes
epistemology
moderation
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy making
- personal decisions
- scientific research
Key Concepts
skepticism
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify the basis of your convictions?
- When should you suspend judgment?
A Different Perspective
Human intuition can mislead without rigorous evidence.
![“[Objectivity] cannot exist without mental flexibility, since none of us is objective by nature. We all have opinions, the roots of which are spread out far and often are hidden in darkness. To have an opinion is both our right and our duty. To change this opinion becomes an intellectual obligation…” quote by J. F. Blumrich](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a4f/j-f-blumrich-244366_nature_objectivity-cannot-exist-without-mental_2030246.jpg)
![“[M]an is not permitted without censure to follow his own thoughts in the search of truth, when they lead him ever so little out of the common road.” quote by John Locke](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9bd/john-locke-814_censorship_m-an-is-not-permitted-without-censure-to_60175.jpg)
