Put the world's greatest philosopher on a plank that is wider than need be; if there is a precipe below, although his reason may convince him that he is safe, his imagination will prevail. (82)
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Even a great philosopher on a wide plank may feel safe, but imagination can still dominate over reason.
- In plain terms
- Imagination can overrule reason even for experts.
- What can you take from it?
- Imagination can outweigh rational safety.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does imagination become a hazard?
- How to keep imagination in check?
Another view
Reason can sometimes curb imagination.
More from Blaise Pascal
Notre raison est toujours decue par l'inconstance des apparences. (83)
Permalink to quote #43 Le silence est la plus grande persecution; jamais les saints ne se sont tus. (919)
Permalink to quote #45 One must know oneself. If this does not serve to discover truth, it at least serves as a rule of life, and there is nothing better. (66)
Permalink to quote #42
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