Quote by H. L. Mencken
The evidence of the emotions, save in cases where it has strong objective support, is really no evidence at all, for every recognizable emotion has its opposite, and if one points one way then another points the other way. Thus the familiar argument that there is an instinctive desire for immortality, and that this desire proves it to be a fact, becomes puerile when it is recalled that there is also a powerful and widespread fear of annihilation, and that this fear, on the same principle proves that there is nothing beyond the grave. Such childish proofs are typically theological, and they remain theological even when they are adduced by men who like to flatter themselves by believing that they are scientific gents...
Summary
This quote highlights the dubious nature of using emotions as evidence in arguments, especially in the context of debating the existence of an afterlife. It explains that emotions alone are not reliable evidence because they are subjective and can be contradictory. For instance, the desire for immortality may seem to support the belief in an afterlife, but it is countered by the fear of annihilation which suggests that there is nothing beyond death. The quote criticizes the simplistic reasoning that relies on emotional impulses as proof, particularly in theological arguments, even when those presenting them may consider themselves to be rational or scientific.
Topics
Emotions
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