De Veritate

The last two sentences from the book, De Veritate (“On Truth”), first published in 1624, written by Edward, Lord Herbert of Cherbury 1 (1582-1648)

Edward Herbert 1st Baron Herbert of Cherbury by Isaac Oliver

I have frequently pointed out that owing to the action of free will, or the infinite within us, we can, if we desire, shut our eyes, stop up our ears, and stifle all promptings of our hearts. The truths I have here expounded are denied to such persons until they learn to use their faculties.

 

 

 

 

 

1 Full name from title page: “EDWARD, LORD HERBERT of Cherbury in England and of Castle Island , Kerry, in Ireland and a peer of the realms.” The book was dedicated to “every sane and unprejudiced Reader.”