A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
Human beings, all over the earth, have this curious idea that they ought to believe in a certain way, and can't really get rid of it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the human tendency to hold onto certain beliefs despite their questionable validity.
C. S. Lewis highlights a fundamental aspect of human nature: the inclination to adhere to specific beliefs or ideologies, which can often be difficult to abandon. This speaks to the power of conviction and the resistance to change the way we think, suggesting that belief systems are deeply ingrained in us and shape our understanding of the world.
Themes
BeliefHuman NatureConvictionPhilosophyUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about belief systems and their impact on society, this quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
C. S. LewisRead
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