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Children Quote by Richard Dawkins

“There is something infantile in the presumption that somebody else (parents in the case of children, God in the case of adults) has a responsibility to give your life meaning and point. [...] Somebody else must be responsible for my well-being, and somebody else must be to blame if I am hurt. Is…” quote by Richard Dawkins
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““There is something infantile in the presumption that somebody else (parents in the case of children, God in the case of adults) has a responsibility to give your life meaning and point. [...] Somebody else must be responsible for my well-being, and somebody else must be to blame if I am hurt. Is it a similar infantilism that really lies behind the 'need' for a God?””

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

Source Book: The God Delusion, Richard Dawkins, 2006

The quote argues that relying on external sources like parents or God for life's meaning is childish; individuals must create their own purpose and responsibility.

In simple terms: Seeking meaning from others is immature; find your own purpose.

Key Takeaway

Take responsibility for your own meaning.

Themes

responsibility meaning individualism

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • spiritual exploration
  • parenting
  • education

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you cultivate self-derived purpose?
  • What responsibilities arise when you reject external meaning?
A Different Perspective

External sources cannot fully satisfy personal meaning.

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