Chance Quote by Richard Whately
“Men first make up their minds (and the smaller the mind the sooner made up), and then seek for the reasons; and if they chance to stumble upon a good reason, of course they do not reject it. But though they are right, they are only right by chance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Elements of Rhetoric, 1828
People often form opinions first and then look for supporting arguments, accepting any good reason they find even if it’s accidental.
In simple terms: Opinions precede reasons; good reasons are often found after the fact.
Key Takeaway
Question your assumptions before seeking justification.
Themes
cognition
bias
reasoning
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical.
When to use this quote
- debates
- decision making
- political discourse
- media consumption
Key Concepts
confirmation bias
post hoc rationalization
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would change your mind?
- How do you test the strength of your reasons?
A Different Perspective
May overlook better alternatives by clinging to initial views.
