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After reading all that has been written, and after thinking all that can be thought on the topics of God and the soul, the man who has a right to say that he thinks at all, will find himself face to face with the conclusion that, on these topics, the most profound thought is that which can be the least easily distinguished from the most superficial sentiment.

Edgar Allan Poe#64

PhilosophySoulReligionThinkingCognitionGod

About this quote

What does it mean?
Poe suggests that deep inquiry into divine topics often leads to conclusions indistinguishable from simple feelings.
In plain terms
Deep thinking about God and the soul often feels like basic emotion.
What can you take from it?
Profound philosophical conclusions may overlap with simple sentiments.

Where it applies

  • theological study
  • personal reflection
  • philosophical debate

Putting it to work

  • journaling
  • meditation
  • debate

Questions to consider

  • Does deep thought ever transcend feeling?
  • How do you distinguish emotion from insight?

Another view

This view might dismiss genuine theological insight as merely emotional.

More from Edgar Allan Poe

  1. If you wish to forget anything on the spot, make a note that this thing is to be remembered.

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  2. A strong argument for the religion of Christ is this - that offences against Charity are about the only ones which men on their death-beds can be made, not to …

    Permalink to quote #65
  3. For one instant the party upon the stairs remained motionless, through extremity of terror and of awe. In the next, a dozen stout arms were toiling at the wall…

    Permalink to quote #62

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