There are two equally dangerous extremes: to exclude reason, to admit nothing but reason.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This insightful quote suggests that there are two opposing and equally perilous extremes when it comes to the role of reason in human thought and decision-making. It warns against the dangers of both rejecting reason entirely and relying exclusively on reason, emphasizing the importance of finding a balanced approach.
At its core, this quote highlights the significance of moderation and balance in human cognition and decision-making. It implies that reason should neither be disregarded nor elevated to the sole determinant of all beliefs and actions.
One interpretation of this quote is that it encourages a synthesis of reason and intuition, acknowledging that both have their place in human understanding. It suggests that while reason is a valuable tool for critical thinking, it should not overshadow the importance of emotions, intuition, and other non-rational elements in our decision-making processes.
Furthermore, the quote prompts us to consider the consequences of extremism in thought. It implies that an extreme rejection of reason can lead to irrationality and superstition, while an exclusive reliance on reason can result in a cold, mechanical, and dehumanized approach to life.
Additionally, this quote can be seen as an invitation to embrace a holistic view of human cognition. It encourages us to recognize that our cognitive faculties are multifaceted, and a balanced approach to decision-making should take into account both rational and non-rational aspects of our consciousness.
In a broader context, this quote resonates with the ongoing discourse on the relationship between reason and emotion, rationality and intuition, and the importance of cultivating a well-rounded and balanced approach to understanding the world.
In summary, this quote underscores the dangers of embracing extremes in the role of reason in human thought and decision-making. It calls for a balanced and integrated approach that recognizes the value of both reason and non-rational elements in our cognitive processes, emphasizing the importance of moderation and equilibrium in our intellectual pursuits.
Who said the quote?
The quote "There are two equally dangerous extremes: to exclude reason, to admit nothing but reason." is often attributed to Blaise Pascal (Quotes). Blaise Pascal was a notable philosopher, mathematician, and physicist, who made significant contributions to probability theory and philosophy of religion.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
