Skip to content

Believe Quote by William Kingdon Clifford

“No simplicity of mind, no obscurity of station, can escape the universal duty of questioning all that we believe.” quote by William Kingdon Clifford
Download Open image
“No simplicity of mind, no obscurity of station, can escape the universal duty of questioning all that we believe.”

William Kingdon Clifford

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Ethics of Belief, 1877

The quote argues that without intellectual simplicity, one cannot achieve a modest social standing, yet everyone must question their beliefs.

In simple terms: Simple mind, modest status, yet questioning is universal.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions regardless of status.

Themes

philosophy critical thinking intellectual humility ethics

Mood

thought‑provoking serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • academic debate
  • personal reflection
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

skepticism social hierarchy belief systems

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why is questioning important for everyone?
  • How does simplicity affect credibility?
A Different Perspective

Complex ideas may be inaccessible to all audiences.

4.9 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by William Kingdon Clifford

Explore all 38 William Kingdon Clifford quotes

More Believe quotes

Browse all 44,777 Believe quotes