Absurdity Quote by Sarah Fielding
“I know not whether it would be too bold an assertion to say that candor makes capacity… But in order to try the truth of any observation relating to the mind, the easiest method is to illustrate it by outward objects. If, for instance, a man was to sweat and labor all the days of his life to fill a chest which was already full, the absurdity of his vain endeavor would be glaring. In the same manner, when the human mind is filled and stuffed with notions brought thither by fallacious inclinations, there is no room for truth to enter: candor being banished, passions alone bear the sway.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Letters on Moral Philosophy, 1748
Truth requires a clear, honest mind; when it is cluttered with false ideas, truth cannot enter.
In simple terms: A clear mind lets truth in.
Key Takeaway
Seek honesty, clear mental clutter.
Themes
honesty
mind
truth
clarity
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- academic study
- decision making
- creative work
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when your mind is overloaded?
- What practices help maintain mental clarity?
A Different Perspective
A completely empty mind may lack the depth needed for insight.
![“[S]haring in common, without any thought of separate property, had ever been their friendly practice, from their first connection.” quote by Sarah Fielding](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/cd3/sarah-fielding-19151_things-happen-for-a_s-haring-in-common-without-any-thought-o_353370.jpg)
![“[H]ow do I pity those who (assuming the name of friends) surround themselves with maxims importing the wisdom of doubt and suspicion, 'til they impose on themselves that very hard task of laboring through life without ever knowing a human creature to whom they can make the proper use of language…” quote by Sarah Fielding](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2d0/sarah-fielding-19151_assuming_h-ow-do-i-pity-those-who-assuming-the-na_687697.jpg)
