Anon Quote by William James
“What do believers in the Absolute mean by saving that their belief affords them comfort? They mean that since in the Absolute finite evil is ‘overruled’ already, we may, therefore, whenever we wish, treat the temporal as if it were potentially the eternal, be sure that we can trust its outcome, and, without sin, dismiss our fear and drop the worry of our finite responsibility. In short, they mean that we have a right ever and anon to take a moral holiday, to let the world wag in its own way, feeling that its issues are in better hands than ours and are none of our business.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: The Will to Believe, William James, 1896
Believers claim that faith offers comfort by treating temporary matters as if they were eternal, allowing moral laxity and reduced anxiety about responsibility.
In simple terms: Faith can provide comfort by treating temporary matters eternal, reducing moral anxiety.
Key Takeaway
Recognize comfort may mask avoidance of responsibility.
Themes
faith
comfort
responsibility
morality
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal crises
- ethical decision making
- spiritual practice
- risk assessment
Key Concepts
existentialism
psychology
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you use belief to avoid responsibility?
- Is comfort worth moral compromise?
A Different Perspective
Comfort can lead to neglect of real duties.
