QuoteProject
For the most part, we inherit our opinions. We are the heirs of habits and mental customs.
Robert Green Ingersoll
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Our beliefs and opinions are largely influenced by those around us and the traditions we inherit.

In this quote, Robert Green Ingersoll emphasizes the idea that many of our opinions and mental habits are passed down to us from previous generations and societal norms. This highlights the importance of critical thinking and self-reflection, urging individuals to question inherited beliefs and customs rather than accepting them blindly.

Themes

OpinionsInheritanceHabitsBeliefsTradition

In practice

Example use cases

During a debate about societal norms, this quote could be used to highlight the importance of questioning inherited beliefs.

More from Robert Green Ingersoll

I will follow my logic, no matter where it goes, after it has consulted with my heart. If you ever come to a conclusion without calling the heart in, you will come to a bad conclusion.
Robert Green IngersollRead
If the guardians of society, the protectors of 'young persons,' could have had their way, we should have known nothing of Byron or Shelley. The voices that thrill the world would now be silent.
Robert Green IngersollRead
The religion that has to be supported by law is without value, not only, but a fraud and a curse. The religious argument that has to be supported by a musket is hardly worth making.
Robert Green IngersollRead
There is no slavery but ignorance.
Robert Green IngersollRead
In all ages the people have honored those who dishonored them. They have worshiped their destroyers; they have canonized the most gigantic liars, and buried the great thieves in marble and gold. Under the loftiest monuments sleeps the dust of murder.
Robert Green IngersollRead
I believe that there is something far nobler than loyalty to any particular man. Loyalty to the truth as we perceive it - loyalty to our duty as we know it - loyalty to the ideals of our brain and heart - is, to my mind, far greater and far nobler than loyalty to the life of any particular man or God. . . .
Robert Green IngersollRead

Similar quotes

The way to deal with superstition is not to be polite to it, but to tackle it with all arms, and so rout it, cripple it, and make it forever infamous and ridiculous.
H. L. MenckenRead
And our wise Father in heaven knows when we're going to need things too. Don't run out ahead of Him.
Corrie Ten BoomRead
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
William BlakeRead
I have cried even when the laugh did choke me. But no more think that I am all sorry when I cry, for the laugh he come just the same. Keep it always with you that laughter who knock at your door and say, β€˜May I come in?’ is not true laughter. No! He is a king, and he come when and how he like. He ask no person, he choose no time of suitability. He say, β€˜I am here.
Bram StokerRead
I love those who can smile in trouble.
Leonardo Da VinciRead
The proximity of a desirable thing tempts one to overindulgence. On that path lies danger.
Frank HerbertRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.

Quote by Robert Green Ingersoll | QuoteProject