To know God better is only to realize how impossible it is that we should ever know him at all. I know not which is more childish to deny him, or define him.
Samuel ButlerRead
Belief like any other moving body follows the path of least resistance.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Belief, much like physical motion, tends to take the easiest route.
This quote suggests that our beliefs are shaped by the path of least resistance, meaning that we often adopt ideas and viewpoints that are the easiest to accept or align with, rather than critically examining them. It highlights the tendency of human nature to avoid challenges and complexities, opting instead for comfort and simplicity in our thinking.
Themes
BeliefResistanceThoughtPhilosophyMindset
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage critical thinking and openness to new ideas.
More from Samuel Butler
All quotes βAcademic and aristocratic people live in such an uncommon atmosphere that common sense can rarely reach them.
Samuel ButlerRead
An apology for the devil: it must be remembered that we have heard one side of the case. God has written all the books.
Samuel ButlerRead
Young people have a marvelous faculty of either dying or adapting themselves to circumstances.
Samuel ButlerRead
People care more about being thought to have taste than about being thought either good, clever or amiable.
Samuel ButlerRead
A friend who cannot at a pinch remember a thing or two that never happened is as bad as one who does not know how to forget.
Samuel ButlerRead
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When prayer removes distrust and doubt and enters the field of mental certainty, it becomes faith; and the universe is built on faith.
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