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About this quote

What does it mean?
Physical science can't console moral ignorance in suffering, but moral knowledge always consoles ignorance of physical science.
In plain terms
Ethics comforts us when science fails; science alone can't soothe moral lack.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize moral learning for emotional resilience.

Where it applies

  • times of crisis
  • academic study

Putting it to work

  • study ethics
  • reflect on values

Questions to consider

  • Why does morality soothe more than science?
  • Can scientific awe replace moral guidance?

Another view

Scientific understanding can also provide comfort through meaning.

More from Blaise Pascal

  1. Justice is as much a matter of fashion as charm is. (309)

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  2. Make religion attractive, make good men wish it were true, and then show that it is. Worthy of reverence because it really understands human nature. Attractive…

    Permalink to quote #34
  3. Il n'est pas honteux pour l'homme de succomber sous la douleur et il est honteux de succomber sous le plaisir. (160)

    Permalink to quote #31

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