Allowing Quote by John Stuart Mill
“It is not the feeling sure of a doctrine (be it what it may) which I call an assumption of infallibility. It is the undertaking to decide that question for others, without allowing them to hear what can be said on the contrary side. And I denounce and reprobate this pretension not the less, if put forth on the side of my most solemn convictions.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Liberty, John Stuart Mill, 1859
Warns against imposing one's beliefs as absolute truth, stifling dissent and critical discussion.
In simple terms: Do not treat personal beliefs as unquestionable.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions, allow dialogue.
Themes
freedom
truth
dialogue
authority
Mood
critical
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- education
- media reporting
- public debate
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle conflicting viewpoints?
- When should you challenge a widely held belief?
A Different Perspective
Absolute certainty can hinder progress and understanding.
![“[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)
