Active Quote by Mary Everest Boole
![“Mathematics had never had more than a secondary interest for him [her husband, George Boole]; and even logic he cared for chiefly as a means of clearing the ground of doctrines imagined to be proved, by showing that the evidence on which they were supposed to give rest had no tendency to prove…” quote by Mary Everest Boole](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e11/mary-everest-boole-58686_active_mathematics-had-never-had-more-than-a-se_1729192.jpg)
“Mathematics had never had more than a secondary interest for him [her husband, George Boole]; and even logic he cared for chiefly as a means of clearing the ground of doctrines imagined to be proved, by showing that the evidence on which they were supposed to give rest had no tendency to prove them. But he had been endeavoring to give a more active and positive help than this to the cause of what he deemed pure religion.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Life of George Boole by Mary Everest Boole, 1860
She describes Boole's view of mathematics and logic as tools to test doctrines, while he also sought to support pure religion actively.
In simple terms: Boole used math to test ideas and also wanted to help religion.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the dual role of logic in inquiry and belief.
Themes
logic
religion
inquiry
science
faith
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic research
- personal belief systems
- ethical decision making
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
Epistemology
philosophy of science
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can logical rigor coexist with faith?
- When should logic be used to challenge beliefs?
A Different Perspective
His religious aims may conflict with strict logical neutrality.
![“Mathematics had never had more than a secondary interest for him [her husband, George Boole]; and even logic he cared for chiefly as a means of clearing the ground of doctrines imagined to be proved, by showing that the evidence on which they were supposed to give rest had no tendency to prove them.” quote by Mary Everest Boole](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/76a/mary-everest-boole-58686_evidence_mathematics-had-never-had-more-than-a-se_23148.jpg)
