Peter Abelard Quotes
Peter Abelard was a French philosopher, logician, and theologian and one of the most original thinkers of the twelfth century. He made decisive contributions to the problem of universals, arguing for a moderate position now usually called conceptualism, and he developed an ethics centered on the intention of the agent rather than on the outward act. The quotes below are attributed to Peter Abelard, organized by topic.
Peter Abelard on Knowledge
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“The first key to wisdom is assiduous and frequent questioning.”
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“I have learnt that the name of philosopher signifies a lover of wisdom.”
Peter Abelard on Truth
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“By doubting we are led to inquiry, and by inquiry we discern the truth.”
Peter Abelard on Virtue
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“There is no sin unless through consent.”
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“It is not the deed but the intention of the doer that makes the sin.”
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Attributed to Peter Abelard:
“In adversity men's true character is most clearly revealed.”