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
People shouldn't call for demons unless they really mean what they say.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote warns against invoking powerful forces or ideas without sincere intent.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes the importance of sincerity and seriousness in one's words and actions, particularly when it comes to calling forth significant or potentially dangerous ideas or influences. It suggests that those who invoke such powers must fully understand and commit to the implications of their actions, lest they invite unintended consequences into their lives.
Themes
SincerityWordsIntentDemonsResponsibility
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a discussion about the weight of our words when discussing personal beliefs.
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
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