Astonishing Quote by Michel de Montaigne
“It is far more probable that our senses should deceive us, than that an old woman should be carried up a chimney on a broom stick; and that it is far less astonishing that witnesses should lie, than that witches should perform the acts that were alleged.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Essays, Book I, 1580
Our senses often mislead us more than fantastical claims, so we should doubt extraordinary stories more than ordinary deceit.
In simple terms: Senses can trick us more than myths.
Key Takeaway
Question extraordinary claims critically.
Themes
skepticism
perception
truth
myths
critical thinking
Mood
cautious
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- everyday decision making
- news consumption
- legal testimony
- scientific research
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
reliability of testimony
extraordinary claims
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify sensory information?
- When should you trust a witness?
A Different Perspective
Extraordinary claims may still be true despite common sense.
