Quotes With Meaning
The South African artist William Kentridge speaks to this type of certainty: 'To say that one needs art, or politics, that incorporate ambiguity and contradiction is not to say that one then stops recognizing and condemning things as evil. However, it might stop one being so utterly convinced of the certainty of one's own solutions. There needs to be a strong understanding of fallibility and how the very act of certainty or authoritativeness can bring disasters.'
The South African artist William Kentridge speaks to this type of certainty: 'To say that one needs art, or politics, that incorporate ambiguity and contradiction is not to say that one then stops recognizing and condemning things as evil. However, it might stop one being so utterly convinced of the certainty of one's own solutions. There needs to be a strong understanding of fallibility and how the very act of certainty or authoritativeness can bring disasters.'
This quote emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty and recognizing our own limitations in understanding complex issues. Kentridge suggests that while we can identify and denounce evil, we should also be aware of the ambiguity and contradictions inherent in art and politics. This awareness helps to prevent an overconfidence in our own solutions, which can lead to harmful consequences. Instead of viewing our beliefs as absolute truths, we should cultivate a mindset that acknowledges the possibility of error. Such a perspective promotes intellectual humility and encourages us to remain open to new ideas and perspectives, fostering personal growth and societal progress. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder that certainty can be dangerous and that a balanced approach can lead to more effective problem-solving.