It is the courage to make a clean breast of it in the face of every question that makes the philosopher. He must be like Sophocles' Oedipus, who, seeking enlightenment concerning his terrible fate, pursues his indefatigable inquiry even though he divines that appalling horror awaits him in the answer. But most of us carry with us the Jocasta in our hearts, who begs Oedipus, for God's sake, not to inquire further.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Philosophers must courageously pursue truth despite terrifying answers, while most people avoid deep inquiry.
- In plain terms
- Philosophers chase truth even if it’s scary, unlike most people.
- What can you take from it?
- Embrace difficult questions to grow intellectually.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What benefits come from confronting uncomfortable truths?
- When might avoidance be wiser?
Another view
Relentless inquiry can lead to distress without proper support.
More from Arthur Schopenhauer
Der Mensch kann tun was er will; er kann aber nicht wollen was er will.
Permalink to quote #2 Obit anus, abit onus.
Permalink to quote #3 We forfeit three-fourths of ourselves in order to be like other people.
Permalink to quote #4
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