The person who is certain, and who claims divine warrant for his certainty, belongs now to the infancy of our species.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: In this quote, attributed to the author and critic Salman Rushdie, a profound insight is offered into the nature of certainty, faith, and the progression of human understanding. It suggests that individuals who claim absolute certainty, especially when grounded in religious authority, may be reflecting a less mature stage of human intellectual development.
The quote begins by highlighting the notion of certainty, which often accompanies religious belief systems. Many religious doctrines are presented as unquestionable truths, backed by divine authority. Those who hold such beliefs often exhibit unwavering certainty in their faith, considering it beyond doubt or criticism. This level of certainty is likened to the “infancy of our species,” implying a less developed, more simplistic mode of thinking.
As human civilization has progressed, the quote suggests that we have moved away from a position of unwavering certainty in religious dogma. It implies that mature intellectual development involves a willingness to question, doubt, and engage in critical thinking rather than relying solely on faith and divine authority. This shift represents the evolution of human thought and the recognition that absolute certainty can limit intellectual growth.
The quote aligns with the broader context of the Enlightenment and the development of secularism, which emphasized the importance of reason, evidence, and skepticism in human intellectual progress. It encourages individuals to embrace a more nuanced and open-minded approach to questions of faith and belief, recognizing that certainty can inhibit the pursuit of knowledge and understanding.
In summary, this quote serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of human thought and suggests that certainty, especially when grounded in religious claims, may be a characteristic of a less mature stage of intellectual development. It encourages individuals to embrace a more open and critical mindset when grappling with questions of faith and belief.
Who said the quote?
The quote “The person who is certain, and who claims divine warrant for his certainty, belongs now to the infancy of our species.” is often attributed to Christopher Hitchens (Quotes). Christopher Hitchens was a prolific writer and intellectual known for his sharp wit and atheist perspectives.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
