Accepting Quote by Walter Lippmann
“Whenever we accept an idea as authority instead of as instrument, an idol is set up. We worship the plough, and not the fruit.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Public Opinion, 1922
Treating ideas as idols stops us from using them as tools, leading to worship of process over result.
In simple terms: Ideas become idols, not tools.
Key Takeaway
Use ideas, don’t idolize them.
Themes
ideas
authority
tool
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education
- innovation
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you treat ideas as ends?
- How to keep ideas functional?
A Different Perspective
Idolizing can hinder progress.
