If rational thought thinks itself out to a conclusion, it arrives at something non-rational which, nevertheless, is a necessity of thought. This is the paradox which dominates our spiritual life. If we try to get on without this non-rational element, there result views of the world and of life which have neither vitality nor value.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Pure reason leads to conclusions that require non-rational elements like faith or intuition to give life meaning.
- In plain terms
- Logic alone cannot explain everything; we need faith or intuition too.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept that non-rational elements are necessary for a meaningful life.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What non-rational beliefs guide your life?
- Can life have value without faith?
Another view
This view may challenge strict materialist or scientific worldviews.
More from Albert Schweitzer
The restoration of our world-view can come only as a result of inexorably truth-loving and recklessly courageous thought. Such thinking alone is mature enough …
Permalink to quote #18 The way to true mysticism leads up through rational thought to deep experience of the world and of our will-to-live. We must all venture once more to be 'think…
Permalink to quote #20 From my youth onwards, I have felt sure that all thought which thinks itself out to an issue ends in mysticism. In the stillness of the African jungle I have b…
Permalink to quote #17
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