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You are never dedicated to something you have complete confidence in. No one is fanatically shouting that the sun is going to rise tomorrow. They know it's going to rise tomorrow. When people are fanatically dedicated to political or religious faiths or any other kinds of dogmas or goals, it's always because these dogmas or goals are in doubt.

Robert M. Pirsig#20

PsychologyPoliticsReligionBeliefDedicationDoubtFanaticism

About this quote

What does it mean?
People are never truly devoted to something they fully trust; fanaticism thrives on doubt about the belief or goal.
In plain terms
Dogma grows from uncertainty.
What can you take from it?
Examine the doubts behind strong convictions.

Where it applies

  • political activism
  • religious practice

Putting it to work

  • encourage open questioning
  • avoid blind loyalty

Questions to consider

  • Why do doubts fuel zeal?
  • Can certainty coexist with dedication?

Another view

Some commitments are based on evidence, not just doubt.

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