Doubt Quote by John Stuart Mill
![“[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” quote by John Stuart Mill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c53/john-stuart-mill-477_doubt_for-people-to-refuse-a-hearing-to-an-opi_63929.jpg)
““[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.””
About This Quote
Mistaking personal conviction for universal truth leads to suppressing dissent, which falsely presumes infallibility.
In simple terms: Confidence ≠ certainty
Key Takeaway
Silencing assumes infallibility
Themes
epistemic humility
freedom of speech
critical thinking
dialogue
intellectual tolerance
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- academic debates
- political forums
- media commentary
- online discussions
- courtrooms
Key Concepts
certainty
truth
discourse
authority
Practical Applications
- Encouraging open debate
- Designing policies that protect dissent
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports your certainty?
- How might silencing affect collective knowledge?
