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About this quote

What does it mean?
Reason, principles, nature, and facts should be valued above reputations, persons, names, and faiths.
In plain terms
I value logic and truth more than people's names or beliefs.
What can you take from it?
Prioritize objective facts and principles over personal reputation or dogma.

Where it applies

  • decision making
  • ethical choices
  • scientific inquiry

Putting it to work

  • follow evidence
  • question dogma

Questions to consider

  • What matters more to you?
  • Can facts conflict with values?

Another view

Faith and reputation can provide social cohesion.

More from Robert G. Ingersoll

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  3. Reason, Observation, and Experience - the Holy Trinity of Science.

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