The correct use of tense
When writing a paper, we often need to quote or paraphase what others have said. I don't really undestand which tense should be used under such circumstances. For example, in this sentence

" Karl Marx believed animal religion was a rigorous form of religion."

Is the use of past tense (believed, was) in this sentence correct?

I sometimes do see people write things like "Karl Marx says..." Is this acceptable quoting the words from a deceased person by using the present tense?

Suppose what he believed in still rings truth today, shall I use the present tense to show this is an objective fact?

Thanks.

Question

The correct use of tense
When writing a paper, we often need to quote or paraphase what others have said. I don't really undestand which tense should be used under such circumstances. For example, in this sentence

" Karl Marx believed animal religion was a rigorous form of religion."

Is the use of past tense (believed, was) in this sentence correct?

I sometimes do see people write things like "Karl Marx says..."  Is this acceptable quoting the words from a deceased person by using the present tense?

Suppose what he believed in still rings truth today, shall I  use the present tense to show this is an objective fact?

Thanks.

Answer

Both are technically correct. Past tense is normally used when conversationally discussing the actions, words, or thoughts of people who are now deceased. However, in English, when a person writes an academic paper for university or a journal they are expected to use the present tense when talking about a work of literature. So, if I was writing for university, my paper would need to read, "Karl Marx believes that animistic religion is a rigorous form of religion" or "In John Milton's epic poem, 'Paradise Lost,' Satan defiantly declares, 'I will not serve!'" 
 I hope that this helps you.

Answers · 2

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