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About this quote

What does it mean?
We quickly believe what we strongly want to be true.
In plain terms
We believe things easily when we wish them to be true.
What can you take from it?
Desire influences belief.

Where it applies

  • making decisions
  • interpreting news
  • personal hopes

Putting it to work

  • check your biases
  • seek evidence
  • question wishes

Questions to consider

  • What do you wish was true?
  • How hard do you look for proof?

Another view

Not all wishes lead to false beliefs.

More from Edward Young

  1. The man that blushes is not quite a brute.

    Permalink to quote #68
  2. Too low they build who build beneath the stars.

    Permalink to quote #70
  3. And all may do what has by man been done.

    Permalink to quote #67

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