“All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”
Arthur Schopenhauer
“All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”
Arthur Schopenhauer
Arthur Schopenhauer, born February 22, 1788, was a German philosopher best known for his pessimistic philosophy and his emphasis on the primacy of the will. His major work, "The World as Will and Representation," delved into the concept that the world is driven by a metaphysical will to live, often at odds with human happiness. Schopenhauer's ideas have influenced a range of fields, from psychology to literature, making him a significant figure in the development of Western thought.
In this quote, Schopenhauer outlines the process by which truth becomes accepted within society. He proposes that any new truth or revolutionary idea initially faces ridicule. This is because it challenges the established norms and beliefs that people have grown accustomed to. Ridicule is a defense mechanism, a way for society to dismiss something that disrupts its comfort zone. This initial phase of rejection can be seen throughout history, whether in the realm of science, philosophy, or social progress.
The second stage, "violent opposition," occurs when the new truth begins to gain traction. As more people consider its validity, those invested in the existing paradigm feel threatened. This stage is marked by intense resistance, as the implications of the new truth often demand a re-evaluation of deeply held beliefs, power structures, or societal norms. For instance, the idea that the Earth revolves around the Sun faced vehement opposition from the Church because it challenged the long-standing geocentric view and the Church's authority.
Finally, in the third stage, the truth is "accepted as being self-evident." Once the truth survives ridicule and opposition, it becomes integrated into the fabric of society. What was once revolutionary or controversial becomes common knowledge, and people may even forget that it was ever in dispute. This is seen in many scientific truths, such as the acceptance of evolution or the germ theory of disease, which faced significant opposition before becoming widely acknowledged.
Schopenhauer's quote encapsulates the struggle that new ideas often face in a world resistant to change. It highlights the cyclical nature of intellectual and cultural evolution, reminding us that many truths we take for granted today were once revolutionary ideas met with skepticism and hostility. The quote serves as both a commentary on the nature of human belief systems and an encouragement for those advocating for change, suggesting that perseverance is essential for the eventual acceptance of new truths.