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The longest tyranny that ever sway'd_x000D_ _x000D_ Was that wherein our ancestors betray'd_x000D_ _x000D_ Their free-born reason to the Stagirite [Aristotle],_x000D_ _x000D_ And made his torch their universal light._x000D_ _x000D_ So truth, while only one suppli'd the state,_x000D_ _x000D_ Grew scarce, and dear, and yet sophisticate.
John Dryden
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote critiques the unquestioning acceptance of a single philosopher's ideas, suggesting it limits true understanding and freedom of thought.

John Dryden's quote reflects on the dangers of blindly following a singular authority, in this case, Aristotle, which he argues leads to a tyranny of thought. By surrendering their inherent capacity for reason to the teachings of one individual, people diminish the pursuit of truth, making it rare and convoluted, just as a state that relies on a singular viewpoint stifles diverse ideas and intellectual freedom.

Themes

TruthReasonPhilosophyTyrannyFreedom

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used to emphasize the importance of critical thinking in education.

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Of no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
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Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
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Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
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And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
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