Application Quote by Steven Pinker
“The Rights Revolutions too have given us ideals that educated people today take for granted but that are virtually unprecedented in human history, such as that people of all races and creeds have equal rights, that women should be free from all forms of coercion, that children should never, ever be spanked, that students should be protected from bullying, and that there’s nothing wrong with being gay. I don’t find it at all implausible that these are gifts, in part, of a refined and widening application of reason.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Enlightenment Now, 2018
Reason has expanded human rights, making equality and freedom unprecedented.
In simple terms: Reason has led to unprecedented rights and equality.
Key Takeaway
Support and apply reason to protect rights.
Themes
human rights
reason
equality
Mood
thoughtful
optimistic
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- law
- education
- family
- schools
- media
Key Concepts
philosophy
social progress
Questions to Reflect On
- What role does reason play in advancing rights?
- How can we address remaining injustices?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone cannot fix deep-rooted prejudice; cultural change needed.
