Skip to content

Belief Quote by Susan Jacoby

“That so many manage to accommodate belief systems encompassing both the natural and the supernatural is a testament not to the compatibility of science and religion but to the flexibility, in both the physical and metaphysical senses, of the human brain.” quote by Susan Jacoby
Download Open image
“That so many manage to accommodate belief systems encompassing both the natural and the supernatural is a testament not to the compatibility of science and religion but to the flexibility, in both the physical and metaphysical senses, of the human brain.”

Susan Jacoby

About This Quote

Source Book: The Age of Scientific Literacy, Susan Jacoby, 2004

Human brains can hold both scientific and religious ideas, showing mental flexibility rather than proving science and religion are compatible.

In simple terms: The mind can juggle science and faith.

Key Takeaway

Recognize mental flexibility.

Themes

cognition science religion flexibility

Mood

curious reflective

Type

analytical thought‑provoking

When to use this quote

  • personal belief formation
  • interfaith dialogue
  • education
  • public policy
  • mental health

Key Concepts

Neuroscience philosophy of mind cognitive dissonance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your brain reconcile conflicting ideas?
  • What limits does this flexibility have?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook conflicts that arise when scientific evidence contradicts religious claims.

3.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Susan Jacoby

Explore all 64 Susan Jacoby quotes

More Belief quotes

Browse all 9,707 Belief quotes