Built Quote by Thomas Reid
“Every theory in philosophy, which is built on pure conjecture, is an elephant; and every theory that is supported partly by fact, and partly by conjecture, is like Nebuchadnezzar's image, whose feet were partly of iron, and partly of clay.”
About This Quote
Source Book: An Inquiry into the Human Mind, 1764
Philosophical theories blend speculation and fact; pure speculation is like an elephant, mixed theory is like a statue with iron and clay feet.
In simple terms: Theories combine guesswork and evidence; pure guesswork is unstable.
Key Takeaway
Balance speculation with evidence.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
theory
uncertainty
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- policy making
- scientific research
Key Concepts
empiricism
rationalism
ontology
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence strengthens a theory?
- How do you handle uncertain foundations?
A Different Perspective
Pure conjecture lacks grounding; mixed theories can be fragile.
![“Physiognomy is not a guide that has been given us by which to judge of the character of men: it may only serve us for conjecture. [Fr., La physionomie n'est pas une regle qui nous soit donnee pour juger des hommes; elle nous peut servir de conjecture.]” quote by Jean de la Bruyere](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3cd/jean-de-la-bruyere-575_character_physiognomy-is-not-a-guide-that-has-been_207056.jpg)
![“There is no greater impediment to the advancement of knowledge than the ambiguity of words. To this chiefly it is owing that we find sects and parties in most branches of science [and politics]; and disputes that are carried on from age to age, without being brought to issue.” quote by Thomas Reid](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aaa/thomas-reid-22153_advancement_there-is-no-greater-impediment-to-the-ad_655402.jpg)
