Able Quote by Percy Bysshe Shelley
“It is thus that the generality of mankind, whose lot is ignorance, attributes to the Divinity, not only the unusual effects which strike them, but moreover the most simple events, of which the causes are the most simple to understand by whomever is able to study them. In a word, man has always respected unknown causes, surprising effects that his ignorance kept him from unraveling. It was on this debris of nature that man raised the imaginary colossus of the Divinity.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Divine Image" by Percy Bysshe Shelley, 1829
People attribute unknown causes to divinity, creating myths to explain simple events.
In simple terms: We mythologize unknown causes.
Key Takeaway
Seek rational explanations.
Themes
mythmaking
ignorance
divinity
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- scientific inquiry
- education
- critical thinking
Key Concepts
philosophy
science history
Questions to Reflect On
- How do myths shape societies?
- Can rationality replace belief?
A Different Perspective
Myths can provide comfort.
