Meaning: The quote "What a man believes may be ascertained, not from his creed, but from the assumptions on which he habitually acts" by George Bernard Shaw, a renowned playwright, critic, and polemicist, highlights the idea that a person's true beliefs are not necessarily reflected in their professed creed or religious doctrine, but rather in the principles and assumptions that guide their actions and behavior. This quote delves into the concept of the dichotomy between professed beliefs and actual behavior, offering a deeper insight into human nature and the complexity of belief systems.

Shaw's quote suggests that one's true beliefs and values are more accurately revealed through their actions and the underlying assumptions that inform their daily conduct, rather than through the formal statements of faith or ideology that they may claim to adhere to. In other words, it is not enough to simply profess a set of beliefs; it is how one consistently behaves and the principles upon which they base their actions that truly reflect their inner convictions.

This quote invites contemplation on the nature of belief and the authenticity of one's professed creed. It suggests that a person's actions and the assumptions that underpin them provide a more reliable indicator of their true beliefs than the doctrines they may espouse. By emphasizing the significance of habitual actions and their underlying assumptions, Shaw challenges the notion that belief is solely a matter of intellectual assent to a set of propositions, instead pointing to the embodied and lived nature of belief.

The quote also prompts consideration of the role of hypocrisy and cognitive dissonance in the realm of belief. It implies that there can be a misalignment between what a person professes to believe and how they actually behave, highlighting the complexity and nuance of human belief systems. It raises questions about the genuineness of one's professed creed in comparison to their day-to-day conduct, encouraging a deeper examination of the congruence between belief and action.

Moreover, Shaw's quote underscores the idea that belief is not static or fixed, but rather dynamic and evolving. It suggests that beliefs are not only articulated in words but are also embodied in actions, and that they are subject to change and refinement based on the principles that guide one's conduct. This viewpoint challenges the notion of belief as a rigid and unchanging set of dogmas, instead presenting it as a more fluid and adaptable aspect of human experience.

In conclusion, George Bernard Shaw's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the relationship between professed belief and actual behavior. It urges us to look beyond mere declarations of faith or ideology and consider the underlying assumptions and habitual actions that truly reveal a person's beliefs. By emphasizing the significance of actions and their guiding principles, Shaw's quote encourages a deeper understanding of the complexity and authenticity of human belief systems.