Errors Quote by Mark Van Doren
“An unexamined idea, to paraphrase Socrates, is not worth having and a society whose ideas are never explored for possible error may eventually find its foundations insecure.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Value of Critical Thinking, 1955
Unexamined ideas risk societal instability; continual scrutiny prevents foundational insecurity.
In simple terms: Question ideas to keep society safe.
Encourage critical examination.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- academic research
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas need reexamination today?
- How to balance doubt with action?
Overanalysis can stall progress.