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Quote by Paul Kurtz

“Skepticism is essential to the quest for knowledge, for it is in the seedbed of puzzlement that genuine inquiry takes root. Without skepticism, we may remain mired in unexamined belief systems that are accepted as sacrosanct yet have no factual basis in reality.”

Quote by Paul Kurtz

Work

Skepticism and Humanism: The New Paradigm

This book delves into the philosophical concepts of skepticism and humanism, analyzing their historical development and contemporary significance. It examines how these ideas shape our understanding of knowledge, ethics, and the human condition. more

Author

Paul Kurtz
Paul Kurtz

Paul Kurtz was a prominent American philosopher, writer, and advocate for science. Born on December 21, 1925, and passing away on October 22, 2012, Kurtz is known for his contributions to scientific rationality, atheism, and liberal thought. more

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“In an argument, you may silence your opponent by pressing an advantage of strength or of wealth, or of education. But you do not really convince him. Though he is no longer saying anything, in his heart he still keeps to his opinion, the only way to make him change that opinion is to speak quietly and reasonably. When he understands that you are not trying to defeat him, but only to find the truth, he will listen to you and perhaps accept what you tell him.”

“...academic credentials are neither a necessary nor a sufficient condition for having your ideas taken seriously. If a famous professor repeatedly says stupid things, then tries to claim he never said them, there's no rule against calling him a mendacious idiot - and no special qualifications required to make that pronouncement other than doing your own homework.Conversely, if someone without formal credentials consistently makes trenchant, insightful observations, he or she has earned the right to be taken seriously, regardless of background.”