When it is not in our power to follow what is true, we ought to follow what is most probable

When it is not in our power to follow what is true, we ought to follow what is most probable

Rene Descartes, a renowned French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist, is often considered one of the founding figures of modern philosophy. His famous quote, "When it is not in our power to follow what is true, we ought to follow what is most probable," reflects his commitment to rationality and skepticism in the pursuit of knowledge.

Descartes was a firm believer in the power of reason and critical thinking. He famously declared, "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am), emphasizing the importance of doubt and skepticism in the search for truth. Descartes believed that in order to arrive at true knowledge, one must first doubt everything and then systematically build up a foundation of knowledge based on clear and distinct ideas.