Agree Quote by Kwame Anthony Appiah
“When philosophers talk about reason they often have in mind Having been in the business of philosophy more than half my life, I have learned that reason doesn't change many minds. But there's a more ordinary sense of resonableness, which involves not just logic but a sensitivity to other peoples real concerns, a desire to understand, even when you don't agree. Many people are reasonable in this way.I'm willing to think that the world will be made better by the conversations of reasonable people, even if there are unreasonable people and people who don't want to converse as well.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Conversation on Reason, 2022
Reason alone rarely changes minds; true reasonableness blends logic with empathy and genuine concern for others' perspectives.
In simple terms: Reason needs empathy to be effective.
Blend logic with empathy in discussions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- workplace meetings
- family debates
- public forums
- online discussions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you show empathy while presenting logical arguments?
- What barriers prevent people from listening to reasonable voices?
Reason alone may be dismissed without emotional connection.