Meaning: This quote by Edgar Howe, an American editor and writer, addresses the relationship between faith and experience, human learning, and investigation. The quote suggests that if one's faith contradicts or rejects the evidence of experience and human knowledge, then it is not a belief system worthy of expression. In essence, Howe is advocating for a faith that is open to critical thinking, inquiry, and the accumulation of knowledge.

The quote highlights the tension between faith and reason, a topic that has been debated for centuries within religious and philosophical circles. On one hand, faith is often associated with trust, belief, and acceptance of certain truths without the need for empirical evidence. On the other hand, human learning and investigation rely on evidence, critical thinking, and the accumulation of knowledge through observation and experimentation.

By stating that faith opposed to experience and human learning is not worth expressing, Howe is challenging the idea of a blind, unyielding faith that rejects or dismisses evidence and rational inquiry. Instead, he advocates for a faith that is open to engaging with the world, seeking understanding, and embracing the knowledge gained through human experience and investigation.

This quote also raises important questions about the nature of faith and its relationship to the broader pursuit of knowledge and understanding. It prompts individuals to consider whether their beliefs are compatible with the findings of science, history, and other fields of study. It encourages critical reflection on the compatibility of faith with the realities of the world and the insights gained through human exploration and discovery.

Furthermore, Howe's words carry significance in the context of religious and intellectual freedom. By advocating for a faith that is open to experience and human learning, he aligns himself with a tradition of thought that values individual inquiry and the free exchange of ideas. This aligns with the principles of intellectual curiosity and open-mindedness, suggesting that faith should not be a barrier to engaging with the world and seeking knowledge.

In today's world, where debates about the compatibility of faith and science continue to unfold, Howe's quote remains relevant. It encourages individuals to critically examine their beliefs and consider how they align with the realities of the world. It also speaks to the importance of maintaining a spirit of openness, curiosity, and intellectual humility, regardless of one's religious or philosophical convictions.

In conclusion, Edgar Howe's quote challenges individuals to consider the relationship between faith, experience, and human learning. It calls for a faith that is open to engaging with the world, seeking understanding, and embracing the knowledge gained through human experience and investigation. By doing so, Howe advocates for a faith that is compatible with critical thinking, evidence, and the pursuit of knowledge, inviting individuals to critically examine their beliefs and remain open to the insights gained through human exploration and discovery.