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
An open mind, in questions that are not ultimate, is useful. But an open mind about the ultimate foundations either of Theoretical or of Practical Reason is idiocy. If a man's mind is open on these things, let his mouth at least be shut. He can say nothing to the purpose. Outside the Tao there is no ground for criticizing either the Tao or anything else.
Interpretation
What this quote means
An open mind is valuable for mundane questions, but should be closed when it comes to fundamental truths.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes the importance of having a discerning mind that can engage with everyday questions while also recognizing when to hold firm on fundamental beliefs. He suggests that an open mind towards ultimate truths or principles leads to confusion rather than clarity. The quote encourages critical thinking and the recognition that certain foundational concepts, like the Tao, should not be subjected to skepticism, as they serve as necessary frameworks for understanding.
Themes
Open MindTruthPhilosophyReasonUltimate Foundations
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophical debate, one might quote Lewis to emphasize the importance of understanding one's core beliefs.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I 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.
C. S. LewisRead
Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
C. S. LewisRead
Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
C. S. LewisRead
I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
C. S. LewisRead
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
Similar quotes
A criminal remains a criminal whether he uses a convict's suit or a monarch's crown.
Victor HugoRead
To adore the conqueror, who now beholds Cherub and seraph rolling in the flood.
John MiltonRead
The United States has the power to destroy the world, but not the power to save it alone
Margaret MeadRead
So much of liberalism in its classical sense is taken for granted in the west today and even disrespected. We take freedom for granted, and because of this we don't understand how incredibly vulnerable it is.
Niall FergusonRead
The farther we get away from the land, the greater our insecurity.
Henry FordRead
Begin with dhyana, with meditation, and end in samadhi, in ecstasy, and you will know what God is. It is not a hypothesis, it is an experience. You have to LIVE it - that is the only way to know it.
RajneeshRead