Quote by David Hume

When anyone tells me that he saw a dead man restored to life, I immediately consider with myself whether it be more probable that this person should either deceive or be deceived or that the fact which he relates should really have happened. I weigh the one miracle against the other and according to the superiority which I discover, I pronounce my decision. Always I reject the greater miracle. If the falsehood of his testimony would be more miraculous than the event which he relates, then and not till then, can he pretend to command my belief or opinion.

When anyone tells me that he saw a dead man restored to life

Summary

This quote, attributed to 18th-century Scottish philosopher David Hume, highlights the importance of rationality and skepticism in evaluating extraordinary claims. It suggests that rather than readily accepting extraordinary events or miracles, it is more reasonable to assess the likelihood of deception or error in the testimonies given. By comparing the likelihood of someone lying or being mistaken with the likelihood of the event occurring, one can make a more informed judgment. Intrinsically, the quote advises caution in accepting extraordinary claims unless they are more probable than the alternative explanation presented.

Topics

Religion Science Miracles Skepticism

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