Meaning: This quote by journalist Jon Carroll offers a thought-provoking perspective on the concept of certainty and self-righteousness. In this quote, Carroll highlights the fallibility of human beings and the inherent subjectivity of our beliefs and creations. By referencing the notion of angels as a human creation, he challenges the absolute certainty that individuals may feel about their own moral or ideological positions.

The quote serves as a reminder that human perspectives, including those rooted in religious or moral convictions, are shaped by our individual experiences, biases, and limitations. The reference to angels, beings often associated with purity and divine guidance, underscores the idea that even concepts traditionally viewed as transcendent or infallible are, in fact, products of human imagination and interpretation.

Carroll's use of the phrase "on the side of the angels" suggests a sense of moral superiority or absolute righteousness. By juxtaposing this notion with the fallibility of human creators, he invites readers to question the certainty with which individuals often assert their beliefs and positions. This can be particularly relevant in contexts such as politics, religion, or social issues, where conflicting perspectives and unwavering convictions are prevalent.

The quote also alludes to the paradox of human nature – our capacity for both deception and occasional acts of integrity. Carroll's reference to humans being "frequently untrustworthy and occasional" acknowledges the complex and multifaceted nature of human behavior. This acknowledgment serves as a caution against blindly accepting or promoting any singular perspective as absolute truth, given our inherent tendencies towards fallibility and inconsistency.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the importance of humility and open-mindedness when engaging with differing viewpoints. It encourages individuals to approach their own beliefs and convictions with a degree of skepticism and self-awareness, recognizing that the certainty they feel may be influenced by their own subjective biases and limitations.

In a broader sense, this quote prompts reflection on the nature of belief systems, the human impulse towards certainty, and the potential pitfalls of unwavering conviction. It challenges us to consider the origins and interpretations of the concepts and symbols that shape our understanding of the world, urging us to approach them with a critical and discerning mindset.

Ultimately, Jon Carroll's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the complexity and subjectivity inherent in human beliefs and creations. It encourages us to embrace humility, critical thinking, and an openness to different perspectives, recognizing that the certainty we attach to our own beliefs is a product of our humanity – fallible, occasionally trustworthy, and always subject to interpretation.