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Absolute truth Quote by Karl Jaspers

“An ideology is a complex of ideas or notions which represents itself to the thinker as an absolute truth for the interpretation of the world and his situation within it; it leads the thinker to accomplish an act of self-deception for the purpose of justification, obfuscation and evasion in some…” quote by Karl Jaspers
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“An ideology is a complex of ideas or notions which represents itself to the thinker as an absolute truth for the interpretation of the world and his situation within it; it leads the thinker to accomplish an act of self-deception for the purpose of justification, obfuscation and evasion in some sense or other to his advantage.”

Karl Jaspers

About This Quote

Source Philosophical Treatise: Existentialism, 1930s

Ideologies become absolute truths, leading to self‑deception and justification.

In simple terms: Ideologies can blind self‑understanding.

Key Takeaway

Question absolute beliefs.

Themes

philosophy psychology politics

Mood

critical reflective

Type

theoretical analytical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • personal belief systems
  • academic study

Key Concepts

truth self‑deception justification

Questions to Reflect On

  • What evidence challenges this view?
  • How do you guard against self‑deception?
A Different Perspective

Overgeneralizes all ideologies.

4.8 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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