Alternatives Quote by Rene Descartes
“If I go for the alternative which is false, then obviously I shall be in error; if I take the other side, then it is by... chance that I arrive at the truth, and I shall still be at fault… In this incorrect use of free will may be found the privation which constitutes the essence of error.”
About This Quote
Choosing a false path leads to error; even correct choices involve chance, highlighting free will’s role in error.
In simple terms: Wrong choices cause error; chance affects truth.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about truth.
Themes
philosophy
error
free will
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- moral responsibility
- uncertainty
Key Concepts
decision making
logic
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you assess truth?
- What limits free will?
A Different Perspective
Truth may be elusive.
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![“[When asked how it felt to be a female prime minister:] I don't know: I've never experienced the alternative.” quote by Margaret Thatcher](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/324/margaret-thatcher-463_alternatives_when-asked-how-it-felt-to-be-a-female-pr_15081.jpg)
