Illusions-delusions Quote by Loren Eiseley
![“He has the capacity to veer with every wind, or, stubbornly, to insert himself into some fantastically elaborated and irrational social institution only to perish with it. [For man is a] fickle, erratic, dangerous creature [whose] restless mind would try all paths, all horrors, all betrayals ……” quote by Loren Eiseley](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/669/loren-eiseley-3848_illusions-delusions_he-has-the-capacity-to-veer-with-every-w_433496.jpg)
““He has the capacity to veer with every wind, or, stubbornly, to insert himself into some fantastically elaborated and irrational social institution only to perish with it. [For man is a] fickle, erratic, dangerous creature [whose] restless mind would try all paths, all horrors, all betrayals … believe all things and believe nothing … kill for shadowy ideas more ferociously than other creatures kill for food, then, in a generation or less, forget what bloody dream had so oppressed him””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Unending Frontier”, 1970
Human nature is fickle, restless, and prone to both belief and destruction, often chasing irrational ideas that can dominate generations.
In simple terms: People swing between belief and doubt, sometimes destructively.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and temper irrational drives.
Themes
human nature
belief
irrationality
danger
generational impact
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- political movements
- cultural trends
- education curricula
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives our belief in the absurd?
- How can societies balance curiosity with caution?
A Different Perspective
Not all irrational ideas are harmful; some inspire progress.
