Believe Quote by Richard Dawkins
“You are born into a dangerous world, there are all sorts of ways in which you could die, and you need to believe your parents when they tell you don't go near the edge of the cliff, or don't pick up that snake, etc. There could very well be a Darwinian survival value in that sort of brain rule of thumb. And a by-product of that could be that you believe your parents when they tell you about the juju in the sky, or whatever it might be.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The God Del, 2006
Evolutionary psychology suggests that parental warnings are rooted in survival instincts, teaching children to avoid obvious dangers, even if the rationale seems superstitious.
In simple terms: Parents warn to keep kids safe, based on ancient survival instincts.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the practical roots of cautionary advice.
Themes
evolution
parental guidance
survival instincts
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
educational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- child rearing
- education
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
risk avoidance
cultural transmission
Questions to Reflect On
- What warnings are truly protective?
- When should you question inherited fears?
A Different Perspective
Over‑reliance on fear can limit exploration and learning.
