Interpretation Quote by Roger Scruton
“A philosopher who says, 'There are no truths, only interpretations,' risks the retort: 'Is that true, or only an interpretation?'”
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Soul of the World” 2014
If all truths are merely interpretations, the claim itself becomes self‑defeating, exposing a paradox in relativism.
In simple terms: Relativism can contradict itself.
Beware of self‑defeating philosophical positions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- personal belief assessment
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can any claim be both true and an interpretation?
- How do we distinguish fact from perspective?
Relativism may ignore objective facts; some truths may be universal.