Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
John AdamsRead
Here is everything which can lay hold of the eye, ear and imagination - everything which can charm and bewitch the simple and ignorant. I wonder how Luther ever broke the spell.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the powerful influence of sensory experiences on the human mind, questioning the ability to resist these influences.
John Adams's quote explores the idea that our senses can easily captivate and deceive us, especially those who are uninformed or naive. He marvels at Martin Luther's remarkable ability to challenge and overcome these enticing sensations that often distract and charm people, suggesting a deeper understanding and clarity that some possess amidst widespread ignorance.
Themes
PerceptionInfluenceIgnoranceUnderstandingSensory
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about critical thinking, this quote can highlight the importance of questioning our perceptions.
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Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
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The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
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