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The antiquity and general acceptance of an opinion is not assurance of its truth.
Pierre Bayle
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Just because an idea is old and widely believed does not mean it is true.

This quote emphasizes the importance of skepticism and critical thinking. It suggests that the age and popularity of an opinion do not validate its truthfulness, encouraging individuals to seek evidence and reasoning rather than accept ideas solely based on tradition or majority belief.

Themes

TruthOpinionBeliefSkepticismCritical Thinking

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a debate about popular myths in society.

More from Pierre Bayle

In matters of religion, it is very easy to deceive a man and very hard to undeceive him.
Pierre BayleRead

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