Attitude Quote by William James
“General scepticism is the live mental attitude of refusing to conclude. It is a permanent torpor of the will, renewing itself in detail towards each successive thesis that offers, and you can no more kill it off by logic than you can kill off obstinacy or practical joking.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Will to Believe by William James, 1896
Skepticism is a persistent mental stance that refuses final conclusions, and it cannot be eliminated by logic alone, just as stubbornness cannot be reasoned away.
In simple terms: Skepticism is a lasting habit of doubt.
Key Takeaway
Embrace healthy doubt.
Themes
skepticism
philosophy
mindset
logic
Mood
inquisitive
cautious
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- decision making
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
critical thinking
open‑mindedness
intellectual humility
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- When does skepticism become counterproductive?
- How can one balance doubt with commitment?
A Different Perspective
Excessive doubt may hinder action.
