Acceptance Quote by Thomas Merton
“For every gain in deep certitude there is a corresponding growth of superficial "doubt." This doubt is by no means opposed to genuine faith, but it mercilessly examines and questions the spurious "faith" of everyday life, the human faith which is nothing but the passive acceptance of conventional opinion.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Seven Storey Mountain, Thomas Merton, 1948
Deep certainty breeds a parallel rise in superficial doubt, challenging everyday unquestioned beliefs while not denying true faith.
In simple terms: Strong belief creates surface doubt about ordinary assumptions.
Key Takeaway
Question your assumptions while holding core faith.
Themes
faith
doubt
critical thinking
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
theological
When to use this quote
- Personal reflection
- theological study
- public discourse
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Epistemology
skepticism
cognitive dissonance
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do you accept without scrutiny?
- How can doubt coexist with genuine faith?
A Different Perspective
Superficial doubt may be dismissed as cynicism, limiting openness to deeper inquiry.
