Evidence Quote by William Kingdon Clifford
“It is wrong always, everywhere, and for anyone, to believe anything upon insufficient evidence.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Ethics of Belief, 1877
Believing without sufficient evidence is morally wrong because it can lead to falsehoods and harmful actions.
In simple terms: Don't believe without proof.
Key Takeaway
Seek evidence before forming beliefs.
Themes
rationality
ethics
epistemology
skepticism
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- scientific research
- legal judgments
- personal decisions
- public policy
Key Concepts
logic
critical thinking
knowledge justification
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would change your mind on a controversial issue?
- How do you act when evidence is incomplete?
A Different Perspective
Sometimes evidence is unavailable, forcing decisions under uncertainty.
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