Best Quote by Jonathan Sacks
“We are biological creatures. We are born, we live, we die. There is no transcendent purpose to existence. At best we are creatures of reason, and by using reason we can cure ourselves of emotional excess. Purged of both hope and fear, we find courage in the face of helplessness, insignificance and uncertainty.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Great Partnership, 2011
Human life is finite and lacks inherent cosmic purpose; reason can free us from emotional extremes, allowing courage amid uncertainty.
In simple terms: Life has no built‑in meaning; reason helps manage emotions and face fear.
Key Takeaway
Use reason to confront fear and find courage.
Themes
existentialism
reason
courage
meaninglessness
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
existential
When to use this quote
- personal loss
- ethical decision making
- mental health coping
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
humanism
stoicism
rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we find purpose without transcendent goals?
- What role does community play in coping with insignificance?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone may not fully address deep existential dread.
