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Certain Quote by Voltaire

“He who has heard the same thing told by 12,000 eye-witnesses has only 12,000 probabilities, which are equal to one strong probability, which is far from certain.” quote by Voltaire
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“He who has heard the same thing told by 12,000 eye-witnesses has only 12,000 probabilities, which are equal to one strong probability, which is far from certain.”

Voltaire

About This Quote

Source Essay: Philosophical Reflections, 1764

Multiple eyewitness accounts increase perceived probability but still do not guarantee certainty.

In simple terms: More witnesses don’t guarantee truth.

Key Takeaway

Question evidence critically.

Themes

probability truth evidence

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • legal testimony
  • scientific research
  • media reports

Key Concepts

critical thinking decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • How many sources are enough for certainty?
  • What limits affect eyewitness reliability?
A Different Perspective

Even many accounts can be biased.

3.6 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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