Age Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The unbelief of the age is attested by the loud condemnation of trifles.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Self‑Reliance, 1841
The era’s disbelief is evident in the loud criticism of trivial matters.
In simple terms: Trivial criticism shows deeper skepticism.
Look beyond surface criticism to underlying doubts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Public discourse
- media criticism
- academic debate
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What “trifles” dominate today’s debates?
- How does criticism reflect societal values?
Focusing on trifles may obscure larger issues.