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About this quote

What does it mean?
People create false idols when they desperately need something to believe in, even atheists can fall prey to their own idealized visions.
In plain terms
Desperation for meaning leads to false beliefs, whether religious or secular.
What can you take from it?
Question your deepest assumptions about the world.

Where it applies

  • existential crisis
  • debating faith
  • self-reflection

Putting it to work

  • critique dogma
  • examine motivations

Questions to consider

  • What do you yearn for most?
  • Is your worldview based on evidence or desire?

Another view

It assumes all strong convictions are wishful thinking.

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