Habits Quote by Thomas Paine
““a long habit of not thinking a thing WRONG, gives it a superficial appearance of being RIGHT, and raises at first a formidable outcry in defence of custom.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Common Sense, 1776
Unquestioned habits appear correct until challenged, then provoke strong defense of tradition
In simple terms: Habits seem right until examined
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions, seek evidence
Themes
critical thinking
tradition
habit
skepticism
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- organizational change
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social conformity
Questions to Reflect On
- What habit have you accepted without scrutiny?
- How do you test the validity of long‑standing practices?
A Different Perspective
Habits can be deeply entrenched and resistant to change
