Book Quote by Mortimer J. Adler
““The characteristics of this kind of reading are perhaps summed up in the word “orthodox,” which is almost always applicable. The word comes from two Greek roots, meaning “right opinion.” These are books for which there is one and only one right reading; any other reading or interpretation is fraught with peril, from the loss of an “A” to the damnation of one’s soul. This characteristic carries with it an obligation. The faithful reader of a canonical book is obliged to make sense out of it and to find it true in one or another sense of “true.” If he cannot do this by himself, he is obliged to go to someone who can. This may be a priest or a rabbi, or it may be his superior in the party hierarchy, or it may be his professor. In any case, he is obliged to accept the resolution of his problem that is offered him. He reads essentially without freedom; but in return for this he gains a kind of satisfaction that is possibly never obtained when reading other books.””
About This Quote
The passage describes orthodox reading as a disciplined, authority‑guided practice that demands acceptance of a single, sanctioned interpretation, offering a unique sense of certainty.
In simple terms: Orthodox reading follows a single, sanctioned view.
Key Takeaway
Authority defines the true meaning.
Themes
authority
interpretation
tradition
certainty
discipline
Mood
reflective
serious
cautious
Type
expository
didactic
analytical
When to use this quote
- theological study
- legal text analysis
- academic curricula
- political ideology training
- cultural heritage preservation
Key Concepts
canon
exegesis
hierarchical guidance
faithful adherence
intellectual obedience
Practical Applications
- teaching structured interpretive methods
- preserving doctrinal consistency
Questions to Reflect On
- When does obedience become intellectual stagnation?
- How can one balance respect for tradition with openness to new insights?
A Different Perspective
Such rigidity can suppress critical thinking and marginalize alternative perspectives.
